Tim Scannell, Accessibility Consultant:

Enhancing Access for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing by Focusing on Sign Language, Digital Accessibility, and Information Access for Everyone.

AI with sign language is moving fast. Accountability is not. Too many claims are appearing in very high numbers. Too many organisations are still avoiding a clear public position. And too often, the discussion seems more focused on protecting AI than protecting people. That is why my question remains simple: Who gave approval for AI with sign language? Alt text: Bold campaign graphic on a dark background. Large white and yellow text says, “AI with sign language is moving fast

Artificial Intelligence is transforming communication — but for sign languages, the most important truth is this: AI cannot understand sign language without Deaf people leading its design. This is not about replacing human interpreters.It is about creating new AI careers where Deaf professionals are builders, validators, and decision-makers . 1. New Job Areas for Deaf Sign Language Users (MediaPipe-Focused) Entirely new roles are emerging as AI systems begin to work with vi

For AI to be used responsibly in accessibility, three parties must all agree : ✔ Deaf community✔ AI provider✔ Organisation / decision-maker If any one says no , the system should not be used . This is not resistance to innovation.It is basic accessibility, safety, and accountability. Too often, AI systems affecting Deaf people are: Designed without Deaf leadership Approved without independent verification Funded without clear responsibility for harm Lived experience is not “

I recently watched a powerful video by the CODA brothers signing in ASL. I can’t share the video directly, but it left me thinking deeply about how AI interacts with sign languages. Here's the reality: AI is not ready for ASL. Facial expressions and body language are crucial in ASL - they’re not just "extra," they carry grammar and emotion . Even your nose , eyebrows, eye gaze, mouth shapes, and shoulder movement add layers of meaning, just like an actor's expression in a mo