Charlotte city council move broadens access for deaf community

ASL interpreter shown in upper right corner of Charlotte City, NC council meeting.  Screenshot from the news channel video for an example.

The Charlotte city council started providing ASL interpretation during their bi-monthly meetings in September.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – American Sign Language, or ASL, interpretation is now available during Charlotte city council business meetings.

A city spokesperson, who said the change went into effect in September after the new city council was sworn in, explained this was a way to connect more with the deaf and hard of hearing community here in Charlotte.

Donna McCord-Smolik, who is deaf and communicates with ASL, says it’s a game changer.

“I’m thrilled!” she signed.