Beyond Words: Why Interpreters Are Essential for True Accessibility
If you’ve ever tuned into a press conference and noticed a sign language interpreter standing beside the speaker — or perhaps seen an interpreter in a workplace meeting — you might have thought, “They’re just translating. It can’t be that hard!” But interpreting is so much more than switching words from one language to another. At its core, interpreting is about connection, culture, and creating equal access.
Accessibility doesn’t stop at communication. It’s about making sure everyone can fully participate in conversations, events, and decisions that affect their lives. That’s where interpreters come in. While many assume interpreters are only there for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or DeafBlind individuals, people who can hear and don’t know sign language benefit just as much from having clear and accurate communication access.
Too often, people think that “communication” automatically equals accessibility. But exchanging words is not the same as having meaningful communication. Some Deaf individuals may prefer captioning and written English. Others rely on interpreting, where they receive not only the words but also the tone, context, and intent behind them. What matters most is that Deaf people are included in decisions about access so they can choose what best meets their needs.
Sign language interpreting is a highly specialized skill. Simply knowing American Sign Language is not enough. Interpreting requires years of training and practice. Interpreters move between spoken English and American Sign Language, carefully conveying meaning, tone, and intent. Consider the phrase “Nice job.” Said with a smile, it’s praise. Said with an eye roll, it’s sarcasm. The words are identical, but the message is completely different. An interpreter must capture not just the words, but the way they were delivered.
Language is never just vocabulary and grammar. It is emotion, intent, and cultural nuance. Interpreters don’t focus solely on one word at a time – they capture the feeling behind what is being said. Research by psychologist Albert Mehrabian suggests that only 7% of meaning comes from the actual words, while 38% comes from tone and 55% from body language and facial expression. While these numbers may oversimplify communication, the point is clear: words alone are not enough.
Interpreters also bridge cultures. Deaf culture is different from mainstream culture. Values, communication styles, and social norms can vary significantly. An interpreter helps both sides navigate these differences, so the message is received as intended. Without that cultural awareness, meaning can be lost or misunderstood, even if the words are technically accurate.
Additionally, professional interpreters are bound by a Code of Professional Conduct, which requires neutrality, accuracy, and strict confidentiality. This professional standard ensures that people can communicate freely, knowing their words will be respected and kept private.
At the end of the day, interpreters do far more than move words from one language to another. They go beyond words — ensuring communication is meaningful, accurate, and culturally inclusive. That is what creates true accessibility: not just the ability to exchange information, but the ability for everyone to fully engage, connect, and belong.