Xrai Glass has been getting a lot of buzz lately over their captioning glasses which incorporates voice-to-text functionality and displays text inside the glasses so the user can watch real-time language translation directly within the glasses. The manufacturer claims their technology can translate between at least 76 leading languages. They say the user must be in a quiet space and the technology works only if one person speaks at a time. The cost? All the software and hardware adds up to around $900-$1,000 USD and subscribing to their service is required. They expect the price to come down eventually. In July, they will introduce the “Beam”, a key accessory to connect the glasses to different devices – laptops, phones, desktop computers and game systems.

The Deaf community in Montreal were surprised by a sudden freeze on interpreter services. Funding from the Quebec government for interpreters ran out before the end of the budget year. It has happened before. The agency that manages interpreters, Metropolitan Montreal Deaf Community Center (MMDCC) had $200,000 funding through April 1, 2023 but came up short. This prevented Deaf people needing interpreters for medical care. Canada has universal health care, so anyone who needs a doctor can visit one. But interpreters are not part of the national health care program. Doctors, public officials and community advocates are calling for the government to do better and fully fund the interpreting program going forward.

A proposal by The Commission on Women and Family in Peru to amend a law requiring the National Police of Peru to provide Peruvian Sign Language interpreters for any Deaf person that makes a complaint within the legal process. This amendment to Law 30364, the Law for the Prevention, Punishment, and Eradication of Violence against Womenand Family Members was approved unanimously. If the police officer knows sign language, they can accompany the Deaf person but if they do not, an interpreter must be provided regardless of cost. The aim is to make it easier for police officers to provide access to Deaf people when they are involved in legal situations. This helps prevent abuse against Deaf people, as well as women and family members.

During a tour of Latin America in Montevideo by Camilo, a famous Columbian singer, musican and songwriter, a Deaf fan named Nacho wanted to meet the singer and managed to enter the backstage to meet Camilo. Nacho spoke with the singer through a sign language interpreter, and Camilo was touched by how he was able to interact with a Deaf person. Nacho shared with Camilo how inspired he was by his song lyrics. Camilo was grateful to the young man for showing him the world “from a different perspective.” He said, “This encounter touched my soul in a very profound way.”

Local education officials in the Solomon Islands are working with the Australian Catholic University to provide sign language classes through the Iumi Tugeda Helpem Solomon Aelans Def Komiuniti: Inclusive Education project. The program aims to address three issues between Deaf and hearing people in the Solomon Islands; bullying, ignoring and neglect. Better communication in both directions would help to resolve these problems.