Interpreters come across various questions about their identity, such as who are you? Where are you from? An interpreter faces complications while answering these questions because they have multiple identities (ex. partner, parent, friend, employee, etc.) and present only those that are most suitable during the interaction. An interpreter has their own identity by which they see themselves and the identity that hearing or deaf people see them. 

Origination of Identity

Every person acquires identity in different ways in life. It may be the circumstance of a person’s birth, or the opportunities that are encountered, and availed throughout life. Generally, our identity can be segmented into four possible places, circumstances of when/where we are born, biologically determined, that we choose and that is given by others. 

Biological Identification

An identity can be more or less biologically determined. The color of eyes and hair, height, and eyesight can be the identity of a person. However, environmental factors and genetic predispositions play a significant role. In many cultures, certain biological traits are valued more than others (e.g., gender preference, value based on height, etc.) 

Birth

Identity is also based on where, when, and to whom a person was born. E.g., in New York, in the 1970s, a working-class, Irish American Catholic family with two children can be an identity of a person. 

Identity by Choice

With the above categories, many other identities are acquired by choice. Some identities are availed by choice, so as to enjoy the privilege that is not accessible to others.  

Identity by Others

Others give some identities like a person living in another country is labeled as a foreigner. If a person is not deaf, then the deaf community distinguishes him as a hearing person. Both these identities are given by others, depending on who is labeling a person. 

Self Presentation

In our course of life, we act out different identities. A human being continually modifies the way to present himself according to other people around her. We never lose identities; only the most appropriate come out according to the situation. 

Professional and Personal Identities

It is vital to have a connection between professional and personal identities in the case of sign language interpreters. If interpreters are not prepared to involve their personal and professional life with deaf people, then they cannot be much effective. An interpreter must be clear about the identity through which they present themselves in daily interaction.  

Presenting with Integrity

Interpreters must think about the genuine way to present themselves to the people they interact with. All individuals (deaf or hearing) expect interpreters to present themselves as they are. Interpreters must be incredibly careful and mindful while presenting themselves and not take over situations. They should present themselves genuinely and respectfully. 

Interpreters should consider some of the questions like

  • Are they familiar with (or use) the expected cultural norms of hearing or deaf people with whom they interact?
  • Are they respectful of the language choices of the people they work with?
  • Are interpreters familiar with a range of people (in terms of race, gender, age, etc.)? How do people expect to interact with interpreters in their languages?
  • Do interpreters present differently to hearing and deaf people?