Lost in Translation: An Analysis of Access to Indigenous Language Interpreters in U.S. Immigration Proceedings

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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

Citation