Language is Identity: Why Indigenous Interpreters Are Important
More than 7 million people in Mexico speak an Indigenous language. However, many are excluded from vital conversations. It’s time to change that.
Cultural Wealth at Risk
Mexico has 68 recognized Indigenous languages. But language barriers still persist in critical areas.
Health
Limited access to proper diagnoses and treatments
Justice
Difficulties in understanding legal processes and rights
Education
Missed opportunities due to lack of effective communication
Many Indigenous people do not fully access their rights due to lack of interpretation.
More Than Just Translators
Ensure understanding of legal rights
Ensure fair access to the judicial system
Communicate clearly in medical emergencies
Facilitate accurate diagnoses and treatments
Respect cultural nuances
Preserve meanings that are lost in Spanish
Consequences of Linguistic Exclusion
Legal Misunderstandings
Unfair trials due to lack of effective communication
Medical Errors
Incorrect treatments due to communication barriers
Missed Opportunities
Limited access to social and educational programs
Loss of Trust
Alienation from public institutions
Language barriers = systemic exclusion.
Protecting Cultures, Not Just Words
Each Indigenous language holds generations of wisdom and identity. By supporting interpreters, we help keep these languages and the cultures they represent alive.
A language is not just communication; it is the vessel of unique worldviews and ancestral knowledge.
Real Impact Stories
Proper Prenatal Care
A Maya woman receiving proper medical care thanks to a midwife interpreter.
Land Justice
A Zapotec farmer winning a land rights case with the help of a judicial interpreter.
These are not just translations. They are lifelines.
What Can We Do?
Advocate for more trained interpreters
Support training and certification programs
Promote inclusive policies
Demand mandatory interpretation in public services
Value Indigenous voices
Include them in important decision-making
Language access is a right, not a privilege.
Let’s honor and support the voices of the Indigenous peoples of Mexico. Together, we can build a fairer and more inclusive country.
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