Dwayne Harris

 

Dwayne Harris has been appointed as a full-time Sign Language Interpreter in the Patient Access Program at the University of Illinois at Chicago Medical Center (UICMC). He is the first full-time sign language interpreter to hold this position at UICMC and is one of only three Black male interpreters practicing in the city of Chicago.

Mr. Harris brings extensive professional and personal experience to his role. Prior to joining UICMC, he worked for five years in the mental health field and spent four years as a freelance sign language interpreter. His lifelong connection to American Sign Language began in childhood, having grown up with a deaf brother and being actively involved in the Deaf community.

Reflecting on the importance of accessibility, Harris emphasizes the need for greater awareness and understanding of Deaf culture. “Deafness is not a handicap, but a communication disability,” he explains. “English is not a deaf person’s first language—American Sign Language is the native language of Deaf culture. I am very pleased to be at UICMC. Working in this capacity has long been one of my professional goals.”

UICMC serves more than 250 deaf and hard-of-hearing patients annually. Since Mr. Harris joined the medical center last May, more than 40 new deaf patients have accessed services. Awareness of his appointment has increased within the community, and patients have expressed confidence and satisfaction knowing that qualified interpreting services are available to ensure effective communication during medical visits.

Individuals who know of deaf or hard-of-hearing patients in need of sign language interpreting services are encouraged to contact the Patient Access Deaf Access Program at (Voice) 312-996-9602 or TTY 312-996-1351.