The educational landscape is in constant flux, and for those advocating for language access in schools, the current environment presents a complex and often challenging terrain. This sentiment was palpable during our August Edu-Panel: If Not Us, Who? Advocating for Language Rights Today!, led by Acting Chair Giovanna Carriero-Contreras and Advisory Board Members Dr. Bill Rivers and Katharine Allen.  

Educators and advocates gathered to discuss the ongoing systemic issues impacting interpreters and translators, and more broadly, the families they serve. The conversation underscored a vital point: advocating for language rights isn't just about the specific roles of interpreters and translators; it's about protecting the broader ecosystem of equity, access, and inclusion within our schools.

The discussion highlighted a confluence of factors creating this pressure. From shifting policies and executive orders to budget cuts targeting essential resources like language access services, the impact is far-reaching. As one speaker noted, "it's the easiest cut that they can make." This reduction in services not only affects the immediate accessibility for families who speak languages other than English, but also leads to job losses across the education system, impacting everyone from school and district staff to families and students.

Adding another layer of complexity is the emergence of AI-driven solutions. While these technologies offer potential efficiencies, they also raise questions about regulation and policy, and quality assurance, creating a dynamic where the familiar landscape of language access is being reshaped. The need for accurate and up-to-date information in this evolving environment was stressed, with a call for a collaborative, two-way conversation between advocacy organizations and their members.

The core message resonated throughout the discussion: sustained advocacy is not just relevant, it is essential. The participants expressed a deep commitment to continuing their work, even in the face of challenges. The conversation also touched upon the personal toll this advocacy can take, acknowledging the "trauma" that can arise from navigating these systemic pressures, particularly for those working directly with immigrant families and children affected by broader societal issues.

Ultimately, the virtual event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of collective action and the enduring need to protect and enhance language access services for the benefit of all students and families. The dedication to preserving what has been built, even as new technologies emerge and policies shift, is a testament to the resilience and commitment of those in this vital field.