Netflix is expanding access to family entertainment with new ASL interpretation options.
Unlike captions, ASL interpretation allows many Deaf children to experience stories in their first language. Through a free browser extension, viewers can watch an interpreter alongside the show and move or resize the signing window to fit their screen.
Popular titles include CoComelon, Spider-Man: Homecoming and Stranger Things.
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The project also highlights Deaf representation behind the scenes. Every interpreter is Deaf and a native ASL signer, bringing their language and cultural experience to the interpretation while providing Deaf children with more opportunities to see Deaf adults represented on screen.
The streaming platform has partnered with SignUp Media to bring American Sign Language interpretation to 89 movies and TV shows, covering more than 200 hours of content.
“Family movie night should mean everyone experiences the story together,” said Mariella Satow, founder of SignUp Media. “Not one person doing the work of making it accessible while everyone else watches.”
Netflix’s investment expands access to more inclusive entertainment, and we hope to see continued progress in accessibility across its platform.
This article includes information from Parents and What’s On Netflix.