Survivors of domestic violence face enormous challenges in escaping the cycle of abuse. First they must come to understand their situation and the long-term implications it has on themselves and their children. And then they must accept that help is available. The way out for these women depends first on the challenge of communicating successfully—and that’s when both parties speak English. But if you come from a culture where women have little power or control over their lives, and you speak very limited English, communication challenges become much more difficult. Words directly translated into English such as “love,” “forced,” or even “abuse” can have different meanings in other languages.
The issues surrounding effective communication for victims of domestic violence are complex and sensitive, so translating becomes more than simply transferring words—it must involve transferring meaning. It takes a very skilled, experienced and sensitive translator or interpreter to overcome language and cultural barriers to create the understanding that truly helps these survivors. Dedicated advocates for the limited-English women experiencing domestic violence are in a unique position to help them live a better life. It’s a wonderful opportunity, and with our expertise and commitment to this endeavor, In Every Language can be a valuable partner.
In Every Language is currently working with the Kentucky Domestic Violence Association and the Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs to develop the nation’s first certification for domestic violence interpreters. This certification will put domestic violence interpreting on par with other nationally recognized certifications in healthcare and legal interpreting.
Some of the projects we’ve worked on for our clients include:
- Arrival interpreting
- Career success programs
- Custody, DVO and EPO hearings
- Domestic violence awareness information
- Domestic violence support groups
- Economic success programs
- Prevention & healthy relationship information
- Rape crisis
- Telephone and on-site interpreting
- Website translation
Some organizations that have benefited from our solutions include:
- The Center for Women and Families
- Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs
- Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice
- Kentucky Domestic Violence Association
- Ohio Domestic Violence Network
- Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence
