Deaf consumers demand equality in telephone access the US celebrates the ADA's anniversary

Americans who are deaf, hard of hearing and deafblind have been left behind in an increasingly digital communications world. These Americans are now fighting for their human right to have equal access to this world. Countless individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind — and their families and friends — have flooded the Federal Communications Commission's docket with pleas for functionally equivalent communications. Consumers are complaining that relay technologies have continued to stagnate as mainstream communications technologies have flourished. They are demanding access to critical emergency services as well as improvements that will put them on par with hearing people, such as a single phone number for VRS and texting, timely access to sign up for VRS, and seamless telephone access at home, at work, and on the go, whether here or abroad. The FCC should adopt a Community Investment approach to VRS rates so that the program can open doors to jobs and education for the deaf community and allow full connectivity with family and friends, doctors and teachers, colleagues and businesses. We all lose when our world is not accessible and inclusive for everyone. Equal communications access is necessary to ensure societal contributions from all Americans, including Americans who are deaf, hard of hearing and deafblind. It’s time for the FCC to provide the financial and regulatory support needed to meet the needs of all Americans with disabilities.

[Sherri Turpin is CEO of ZVRS and Purple Communications (ZP), a leading provider of communications solutions, including video relay technology, and interpretation services for deaf and hard of hearing individuals.]