The Future of Language Access: Navigating Shifts in DEI Funding

Diverse hands stacked on top of each other in a circle.

The recent changes in federal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives have raised concerns about the future of language access. At Be Moore Interpreting, we recognize that language services are a foundational pillar of DEI, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and included in all spaces. Without language access, true equity and inclusion cannot exist. As funding priorities shift, the impact on our industry will be significant and far-reaching. 

Language Access is the Crux of DEI

Interpreters and translators play a crucial role in making spaces more inclusive by ensuring individuals from all linguistic backgrounds have access to vital services, from healthcare to legal representation. Language barriers perpetuate systemic inequities, and without skilled professionals to bridge these gaps, entire communities may struggle to access essential services. 

Legal Protections: Are They Enough?

Laws such as Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandate language access in various settings, particularly in healthcare and public services. However, the question remains—will these laws be enough to sustain the industry if funding shifts? Compliance does not always equate to enforcement, and without dedicated resources to support language services, organizations may seek cost-cutting measures that could undermine quality and accessibility. 

The Economic Impact on Interpreters and Translators

Adjustments in DEI funding often mean reduced financial support for language access programs, which in turn affects the livelihoods of millions of interpreters and translators. Organizations faced with tighter budgets may reduce rates for language services, leading to lower wages for professionals in the field. This downward pressure on pay has historically resulted in decreased quality. When compensation does not align with the skill and professionalism required for interpreting and translation, the industry suffers. In past experiences, I have seen interpreters arrive at assignments in pajamas—a clear indicator of undervaluation in the field. Professional interpreters expect to be paid a living wage, and ensuring fair compensation is key to maintaining high standards in our industry. 

The Misuse of Bilingual Staff as Interpreters

A predictable consequence of reduced funding is the increased reliance on bilingual staff for interpretation and translation. However, being bilingual does not equate to being an interpreter or a translator. The skills required for accurate, ethical, and effective language services go far beyond conversational fluency. As someone who has spoken Spanish my whole life but was educated in the U.S., I know firsthand that my Spanish writing skills do not compare to those of a native speaker educated in a Spanish-speaking country. Businesses and organizations that attempt to cut costs by shifting the responsibility to untrained bilingual staff may expose themselves to greater liabilities, errors, and legal consequences. 

The Rise of AI and the Loss of Human Context

Another cost-cutting measure we are likely to see is the increased reliance on artificial intelligence for translations. While AI-powered tools have come a long way, they still lack the cultural and contextual understanding that human interpreters and translators provide. AI cannot replace the nuance, ethical decision-making, or the ability to navigate culturally sensitive situations. The result? Impersonal, inaccurate, and often problematic translations that fail to meet the needs of diverse communities.

A Call to Action

At Be Moore Interpreting, we are prepared to navigate these changes while continuing to advocate for high-quality, professional language services. We encourage organizations, policymakers, and community leaders to recognize that ensuring language access is not just about meeting compliance—it is about upholding the fundamental right to be understood. We remain committed to the belief that language services are essential to fostering truly inclusive communities, and we will continue to champion professional interpretation and translation as an indispensable part of equity and inclusion.