National Interpreter Appreciation Day is a special observance dedicated to recognizing the vital role that interpreters play in facilitating communication across different languages and cultures. This day highlights the importance of interpreters in bridging communication gaps for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as those who speak different languages.

Quick Facts

  • When is it?: The first Wednesday of May
  • Tagged as: Interpreter Appreciation Day
  • What’s the hashtag?: #InterpreterAppreciationDay
  • When was it founded?: 2013
  • Who founded it?: Joshua Jones, a deaf-blind individual from California

History of National Interpreter Appreciation Day

The celebration of interpreters began in 2013 when Joshua Jones created a Facebook page to honor the dedication and hard work of interpreters. This initiative gained traction and became an annual event, emphasizing the essential services provided by interpreters in various settings, including healthcare, education, and government.

Timeline

  • 2022: May 4 (Wednesday)
  • 2023: May 3 (Wednesday)
  • 2024: May 1 (Wednesday)
  • 2025: May 7 (Wednesday)
  • 2026: May 6 (Wednesday)
  • 2027: May 5 (Wednesday)
YearMonth and DateDay
2025May 7Wednesday
2026May 6Wednesday
2027May 5Wednesday
2028May 3Wednesday
2029May 2Wednesday
2030May 1Wednesday

Observed

National Interpreter Appreciation Day is observed by thanking interpreters for their hard work and dedication. Many people celebrate by sending cards, gifts, or simply expressing gratitude for their contributions.

Fun Facts About Interpreting

  • There are over 6,500 languages spoken worldwide, making interpreters crucial for effective communication.
  • Interpreters often work in high-pressure environments where accurate and timely communication is essential.
  • The profession requires not only language skills but also cultural knowledge to convey messages appropriately.

Quiz

  1. Who founded National Interpreter Appreciation Day?
  • A) Joshua Jones
  • B) St. Jerome
  • C) The National Association of Interpreters
  1. When is National Interpreter Appreciation Day celebrated?
  • A) First Monday of May
  • B) First Wednesday of May
  • C) Last Friday of April
  1. What is the main purpose of this day?
  • A) To promote learning new languages
  • B) To appreciate the work of interpreters
  • C) To celebrate cultural diversity

Answers:

  1. A) Joshua Jones
  2. B) First Wednesday of May
  3. B) To appreciate the work of interpreters

FAQs

What is the role of an interpreter?

An interpreter translates spoken or signed language from one language to another, facilitating communication between parties who do not share a common language.

Why are interpreters important?

Interpreters enable effective communication in diverse settings, ensuring that everyone can understand and be understood, regardless of language barriers.

Who needs an interpreter?

Individuals needing interpreters include those communicating across different spoken languages or those who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Related

  • International Translation Day
  • World Sign Language Day
  • National Deaf Awareness Month