By Katlego Sekhu
South African actress Jo-Anne Reyneke recently came under fire over a comedic video she shared of a sign language interpreter.
Many people on social media deemed the video ‘insensitive.”
Jo-Anne Reyneke released a statement to clarify her position and the reason for making the sign language interpreter video which “has been deemed offensive to the deaf and hard of hearing community.”
She began by stating that she is a firm supporter of the community and has worked as an artist with members of the community in shows such as Muvhango.
Not turning a blind eye to the fact that the community has suffered a great deal of discrimination, she believes “the need for advocacy and education outside of the community” is vital.
“It is unfortunate that my intention with the video has been misinterpreted,” she adds.
Jo-Anne says that she “was not making fun” of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing but rather “shining a light” on the disturbing trend of scam interpreters being poorly vetted and ending up on television.
Her view on comedy is that “often it is a source of making critical socio-political commentary in a way that furthers the conversation amongst an audience that would otherwise not engage. “
She says by making the video “her intention was to have the audience ask themselves why scammers have been allowed to penetrate official spaces.”
