Language Interpreters, Columbus Day & Bilingual Adults

What do language interpreters have in common with Columbus day? Everything! Without language professionals, making the United States of America what it currently is today would have been a lot harder than it was. Even Christopher Columbus himself, and other early settlers, employed bilingual adults and language interpreters on voyages.

Before the settlers arrived on its shores in 1492, scholars believe there were approximately 112 million native peoples living in what would eventually become the United States of America. This staggering number is difficult for many of us to truly comprehend. For perspective, it’s roughly equivalent to the entire population of Vietnam today. Imagine the richness of culture, the diversity of languages, and the depth of knowledge that these communities possessed. Languages like Algonquin, Iroquoian, and Muskogean were woven into the very fabric of life, serving as a means of connection, tradition, and identity.

Yet, as settlers established dominance, indigenous languages and cultures faced devastating decline. The reality that by the 1800s, the Native population had dwindled to just 600,000 speaks to a profound loss—not just of people but of languages, traditions, and entire worldviews. As colonized communities were forced to learn English, Spanish, French, or Dutch, they were simultaneously stripped of their linguistic heritage. This shift not only impacted communication but also eroded cultural identities that had existed for millennia.

Moving forward with Indigenous Peoples' Day: Bilingual adults can become language interpreters for immigration

So, as we reflect on Columbus Day and its transformation into Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we must acknowledge the role of language in this narrative. Bilingual language interpreters today still play an essential role in bridging gaps and facilitating understanding, much like their ancestors did. They are vital in ensuring that indigenous voices are heard and respected, particularly in contexts involving immigration interpreting and legal proceedings.

Because the work of immigration interpreters is essential not just for language translation but for preserving the stories and histories that might otherwise be lost. Language interpreters work to provide adequate language services for indigenous communities, we honor their resilience and acknowledge the significant impact of colonization on their languages and cultures. Supporting language access today is not just a civil right; it is a means of ensuring that the rich tapestry of our collective history continues to thrive.

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