Note: This was originally published in a column by Tim Curry in GONG magazine of the Czech Republic, November 2016.

Friend OR Interpreter? Friend AND Interpreter?

Many times, hearing people think that sign language interpreters are friends or family members of a Deaf client. Sometimes interpreters do know the Deaf person in the interpreting situation. However, that brings up the question: Should interpreters have Deaf friends to be good interpreters?

Being a friend involves a level of trust. Trust is essential to the interpreting process, to be sure. If the interpreter has a connection to the Deaf community, then a level of trust is started. If an interpreter does have Deaf friends or family, then the Deaf client will immediately know that the interpreter has some knowledge of what the client has experienced as a deaf person. The client can also assume that the interpreter has some knowledge of the language needed as well. But, can a Deaf person trust an interpreter that has no Deaf friends?

They do not need to be close friends with the community members, but they need to be at least involved in the community on an acquaintance level. In addition to other skills, a sign language interpreter must have good language skills and cultural knowledge of the Deaf community. Language and culture are connected and are always changing. Interpreters must be engaged with the communities they serve to keep up with current changes. This means they must attend Deaf events and/or volunteer at Deaf clubs and such. When Deaf see the actions of an interpreter in their community, they can decide whether to give their trust or not.

Interpreting is not about friends helping friends. Interpreting is a professional relationship, one that needs trust. This relationship with the community improves the interpreter’s language skills, knowledge and trust. It is not required to have Deaf friends to be a good interpreter, but it is required to be a friend to the Deaf community.

Tim Curry, M.S.

Note: This was originally published in a column by Tim Curry in GONG magazine of the Czech Republic, November 2016.