Komunikacja Głuchych i z Głuchymi w sytuacjach kryzysowych. Głusi Żydzi w hitlerowskich obozach koncentracyjnych

Language mediation in zones of conflict or crisis has been ubiquitous throughout history. It is a complex activity that has been the subject of much study and research from theoretical, methodological, ethical and translation history perspectives. In armed conflicts, the challenge for translators and interpreters, including sign language interpreters, goes beyond linguistic and cultural issues. In such situations, the interpreter may not be fully aware of the consequences of his/her mediation. The issue of communicating with Deaf, particularly Deaf Jews in crisis situations during the Second World War, has only recently been addressed by researchers. Few studies have been devoted to the topic of communication of Deaf Jews in Nazi concentration camps. My paper, based on archival materials, memoirs and testimonies, will focus on the situation of Deaf Jewish inmates in Nazi concentration camps, their limited ability to communicate with other inmates, and the means of accessing information to ensure any chance of survival. The paper will also address the issue of interpreting Deaf survivors’ testimonies and the challenges posed by critical differences between Deaf and hearing cultures.