Articles by BRENDA CARTWRIGHT

Do deaf people drive?

Do deaf people drive?

By Brenda Cartwright
Thursday, March 17, 2022

Have you ever wondered about deaf people driving automobiles? Read the article for the answer and a better understanding.
What is American Sign Language (ASL)?

What is American Sign Language (ASL)?

By Marta Belsky and Brenda Cartwright
Friday, February 18, 2022

American Sign Language (ASL) is a full, natural language that has developed through use. Read the article to learn more about ASLs complex and interesting characteristics and its relationship to Deaf culture.
Signs That Are Close... But Not the Same - Alphabet

Signs That Are Close... But Not the Same - Alphabet

By Brenda Cartwright
Tuesday, February 1, 2022

This article is part of our “Signs That Are Close... But Not the Same” series, which highlights signs that look similar, but have different meanings. The signs discussed in this article are all from the alphabet: (1) A vs. S vs. T, (2) A vs. E, (3) E vs. O vs. C, (4) P vs. K, (5) 1 vs. D vs. K, (6) G vs. H vs. Q vs. U vs. N, (7) N vs. M, (8) R vs. U, and (9) J vs. Z
Living Loud:  I. King Jordan - First Deaf President of Gallaudet University

Living Loud: I. King Jordan - First Deaf President of Gallaudet University

By Brenda Cartwright
Monday, November 29, 2021

After a historical protest, I. King Jordan was named the 1st deaf president of the only liberal arts university for deaf students, Gallaudet University.
Living Loud: Linda Bove - Actress and Activist

Living Loud: Linda Bove - Actress and Activist

By Brenda Cartwright
Wednesday, November 17, 2021

As an actor on Sesame Street, Linda Bove had the longest-recurring role in television history for a deaf actor. Her influence helped many around the world take an interest in sign language and learn more about Deaf culture.
Signs That Are Close... But Not the Same - Iconic Signs

Signs That Are Close... But Not the Same - Iconic Signs

By Brenda Cartwright
Wednesday, July 21, 2021

This article is part of our “Signs That Are Close... But Not the Same” series, which highlights signs that look similar, but have different meanings. The signs discussed in this article include (1) Type vs. Piano, (2) Pencil vs. Write, (3) Ice Cream vs. Microphone, (4) Telephone vs. Cell Phone, (5) Telephone vs. Call, and (6) Tree vs. Deaf Applause.
Signs That Are Close... But Not the Same - Set 13

Signs That Are Close... But Not the Same - Set 13

By Brenda Cartwright
Tuesday, December 1, 2020

This article is part of our “Signs That Are Close... But Not the Same” series, which highlights signs that look similar, but have different meanings. The signs discussed in this article include (1) Decide vs. Court, (2) Supervise vs. Take Care Of, (3) Shoes vs. Advertise, (4) Awkward vs. Walk Fast, and (5) Race vs. Game.
How do you sign… toss?

How do you sign… toss?

By Jillian Winn and Brenda Cartwright
Monday, January 6, 2020

We get this question all the time, "How do you sign _____?" It is easily the most common question anyone asks. However, it can be a tough question to answer because there isn’t a direct translation for every English word. Figuring out the meaning and context of what someone is trying to communicate is the key to picking the right sign (or signs) to use. So if you provide context when asking the question "How do you sign…" you are much more likely to get an accurate answer. Remember, when in doubt, you should fingerspell the word. 
Interpreter Q & A: If the Deaf client isn’t paying attention, should the interpreter keep signing?

Interpreter Q & A: If the Deaf client isn’t paying attention, should the interpreter keep signing?

By Brenda Cartwright
Thursday, November 21, 2019

This Interpreter Q & A ask: If the Deaf client isn’t paying attention, should the interpreter keep signing as normal? This article is part of our "Dear BC, Interpreter Q & A” series, which answers questions on interpreting and Deaf culture from multiple perspectives.