There are about 6,500 languages in the world and on any given day, we’re bound to come in contact with more than one of them. National Interpreter Appreciation Day on the first Wednesday of May celebrates the experts who connect those who want to communicate but they don’t speak the same language. They also translate for government services, businesses, hospitals, organizations, and more. Interpreters learn many different languages including Spanish, French, Arabic, Mandarin, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Japanese, and Sign Language in many different forms.
Interpreters come in many forms:
- Simultaneous Interpreters – This type of interpreter will translate what is being said as the person is speaking. News conferences, government meetings, and other large gatherings may require simultaneous interpretation.
- Consecutive Interpreters – Interpreters translate speech during pauses usually in smaller settings or between two people. It mimics dialogue.
- Whisper Interpreters – The interpreter translates live, but quietly, usually in a faith setting. They usually sit near those who need to hear the translation. Or, in the case of a sign language interpreter, will stand where they can clearly be seen.
- Phone Interpreters – Interpreters provide interpret between two or more parties on the phone. Usually, an interpreter provides the service as a third party for businesses, government services, and other services.
National Interpreter Appreciation Day encourages us to show our appreciation to the interpreters we know or encounter. Their ability to translate even one language is an awe-inspiring accomplishment. Some interpreters translate several more!
HOW TO OBSERVE #InterpreterAppreciationDay
Language doesn’t have to be a barrier. That’s why we celebrate interpreters! We appreciate their ability to connect us and keep us connected to each other and the world. When you encounter an interpreter, give them your undivided attention. Let them know you admire their skill and dedication. Recommend their services and give them a shout-out, too! And don’t forget to use #InterpreterAppreciationDay on social media.
National Interpreter Appreciation Day History
In 2013, Joshua Jones started a Facebook page for Interpreter Appreciation Day as an annual reminder to celebrate the talented and often under pressure professionals who keep the dialogue flowing when two cultures meet.