
The Grammys have never exactly been a beacon of accessibility, but this year, they took a big step forward. For the first time, ASL interpreters were featured at the Premiere Ceremony, a moment of recognition that was long overdue. And on the red carpet? Some of the biggest stars—Victoria Monét, Paris Hilton, CeeLo Green, and Cynthia Erivo—showed up with their own interpreters, making a bold statement about inclusion in an industry that often overlooks Deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences.
Pro Bono ASL provided all ASL interpreters with the help of RAMPD (Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities), Celebrities could choose to have an interpreter walk with them through the red carpet to make the viewing experience more accessible.
But in true internet fashion, the historic moment wasn’t met with unanimous praise. While many in the Deaf community and their allies celebrated, some people—mainly those who have never needed an interpreter—decided they had an issue with it.
Enter Charlie Kirk, a right-wing commentator who recently saw ASL interpreters during live broadcasts as a distraction. His claim? That ASL interpreters are unnecessary, and closed captions should be enough. The response? Deaf activists and educators quickly shut him down, reminding everyone that accessibility isn’t about what’s easiest for hearing people—it’s about what actually works for the Deaf community.
This isn’t just about the Grammys.
The backlash taps into a much larger conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), a topic that continues to be polarizing in American culture. As political figures like former President Donald Trump roll back accessibility initiatives, efforts like RAMPD (Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities) and Pro Bono ASL are working overtime to create spaces where everyone is included. And it’s not just advocacy groups pushing for change—celebrities are stepping up too.
Take Cynthia Erivo, for example. The multi-hyphenate performer has long been vocal about inclusivity in entertainment, so it’s no surprise she made sure to have an interpreter by her side. Paris Hilton—yes, that Paris Hilton—also made headlines for bringing an interpreter, proving that accessibility isn’t just for a niche group; it’s something mainstream figures should care about, too.
Jackie G, a Deaf influencer, summed it up best on Threads: “Seeing Cynthia Erivo AND Paris Hilton bring their own ASL interpreters to the Grammys feels like the biggest FU to Charlie Kirk and I’m so here for it 😌”
“With DEl and accessibility under attack, both Cynthia Erivo and Paris Hilton showed up to the Grammy red with their own ASL interpreters. This sends a clear message: accessibility and inclusion should not be negotiable.” @riizzyray
Of course, the Grammys still have a long way to go. Including ASL at the Premiere Ceremony was a step forward, but true accessibility means ensuring interpreters are present throughout the entire event, not just in selective spaces. And while this year’s red carpet showcased a handful of interpreters, the ultimate goal should be an entertainment industry where ASL is normalized, not just seen as a feel-good moment.
For now, though, the visibility of ASL interpreters at one of music’s biggest nights is a win worth celebrating. The Grammys are a reflection of the industry, and the industry is changing. Whether the critics like it or not, accessibility is here to stay—and it’s only getting louder.