Witnessing Justice and Trauma: An Interpreter’s Experience
As someone who has spent nearly 30 years interpreting in legal and medical settings I have seen both the best and the worst of humanity. I have worked on cases where language services were crucial to ensuring justice for victims, defendants and families. My role has placed me in deeply emotional and disturbing environments where I have interpreted for survivors of unimaginable abuse and for the professionals working to protect them.
The Difficult Reality: Undocumented Status and Serious Crime
Some of the most difficult cases I have encountered involved individuals who were undocumented and later committed serious crimes often within their own families. I have interpreted for victims as young as five and translated hours of interviews detailing deeply traumatic experiences. These are not easy things to witness and they have left a lasting impression on me.
Navigating Compassion and Accountability in Immigration
It is important to say that most people who come to this country regardless of their legal status are simply looking for a better life. I understand that and I share deep compassion for families who make that journey. But I also believe we need to hold space for a conversation that acknowledges the complexity of immigration one that includes not just hope and opportunity but also accountability and public safety.
My Family’s Journey: Legal Immigration and Responsibility
My own family came to the United States legally and it took years of effort, sacrifice and commitment. We were eventually given the opportunity to become citizens and we have never taken that for granted. We came for freedom and we respect the laws and values of this country. With that privilege comes responsibility.
Deportation, Justice, and Protecting the Vulnerable
When someone commits violent crimes especially against women and children the conversation changes. In those cases deportation is not about cruelty or exclusion. It is about protecting the vulnerable and using our resources responsibly. The United States should not be expected to carry the cost of incarceration for those who never had legal status and who have committed unthinkable acts. Sending such individuals back to their country of origin is a matter of justice and safety not prejudice.
A Call for Discernment: Balancing Human Rights and Community Safety
I know the word deportation triggers strong emotions. But I urge those who care deeply about human rights to also consider the rights of the victims the trauma endured by families and the financial and social costs we all share. This is not about painting all immigrants with one brush. It is about recognizing that like any system immigration must be approached with both compassion and discernment.
If you truly care about justice about the safety of our communities and about making sure this country remains a place of refuge and opportunity for those who respect its laws then I invite you to listen to those of us who have seen the reality up close.