Navigating intersectional identities : the experiences of International Sign interpreters and deaf professionals

Abstract

This doctoral thesis examines the intersectional experiences of International Sign (IS) conference interpreters and deaf professionals in high-level positions who work with IS interpreters. The study includes 33 participants with diverse gender, racial, sexual, linguistic, and geographical backgrounds. Using a multi-phased, multi-method qualitative approach, including conversations, observations, and mind map interviews, the study provides an in-depth analysis of IS conference interpreting. The theoretical framework adopts a relational approach and integrates Gender Studies, Critical Race theory, and the Sociology of Work, drawing on gender and inequality theories in the workplace, intersectionality, and identity taxation, alongside insights from Deaf Studies and Sign Language Interpreting Studies. Findings reveal that access to working as an IS conference interpreter is gendered. Feelings of not belonging are heightened for those in less privileged positions, influenced by male and hearing dominance, language background, imposter syndrome, and the lack of diverse role models. These factors shape their experiences of (not) applying for (pre/full) IS accreditation. Tokenism impacts Global Majority, female, and deaf interpreters, who often seem to be valued for their identities rather than their skills. Global Majority women face additional identity taxation, due to representational responsibilities. Despite appearing cohesive, IS interpreting networks reinforce exclusivity through selective gatekeeping and support practices. The study further explores the nature of IS conference interpreting, emphasising close collaboration with deaf professionals. Hierarchies within the field are shaped by hearing dominance, gender, age, seniority, and professional settings, including the people involved. The field demands flexibility, creating challenges for caregiving interpreters. Travel opportunities are unequally distributed, with safety concerns for female, queer, and gender nonconforming interpreters. Interpreters engage in aesthetic and gendered labour to conform to, and occasionally challenge, organisation norms. Finally, the study examines how social identities shape interpreting practices and interactions. Deaf professionals experience deaf taxation when managing interpreter attitudes and navigating tensions. They express gendered preferences, with authentic representation being critical for deaf professionals of colour and queer deaf professionals, yet they often work with interpreters who are less aligned in terms of identities. IS interpreters face identity taxation, particularly women who encounter inappropriate behaviour. Team dynamics are shaped by masculinities and femininities, with queer interpreters challenging hetero/cisnormativity. Global Majority female interpreters navigate racialised and gendered expectations, often avoiding confrontation to mitigate professional consequences. The study contributes to Gender Studies, Critical Race Theory, Sociology of Work, Deaf Studies, and Sign Language Interpreting Studies. Its findings have implications for both practice and pedagogy in the sign language interpreting field and may inform other gendered and mobile fields of work.