Lost in Translation: An Analysis of Access to Indigenous Language Interpreters in U.S. Immigration Proceedings
Loading...
Date
2023
Authors
Scott, Alexa
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
The United States immigration system continues to be a source of contention and debate within politics and society in general. While popular discourse tends to center around federal policies, there are many aspects of migration in the United States that are overlooked and under researched. One such area is the presence of migrants in the U.S. court system whose primary language is an indigenous language. The number of indigenous migrants in the United States has increased significantly in recent years, meaning that a wide variety of languages never seen in the United States are now present in immigration courts. With this increased demand, there is a new need for interpreters who can provide services to these migrants and for immigration attorneys who are culturally competent and able to represent their clients’ diverse backgrounds and lived experiences. This paper seeks to fill the gap in research regarding the presence of indigenous migrants in the United States by asking how different actors in immigration courts approach issues of language access when a migrant's primary language is an indigenous language. The data consists of interviews done with immigration attorneys who have experience working with indigenous migrants and a courtroom interpreter who leads a coalition of indigenous language interpreters. The interviews reveal a complex series of logistical barriers and discrimination that are unique to migrants who speak indigenous languages. The paper concludes with a discussion of recommendations that may increase accessibility, visibility, and quality of services for indigenous migrants in the United States.
Description
46 pages
Keywords
Indigenous Language Interpreters, Immigration Court, Attorneys, Interpreters, Access