Language

Cristina Starr, Laura Miljour, Annita List MSW, and Julia Guevara Ph.D

Spanish is the language of the Salvadorians. For the trip we had an experienced translator and friend; her name is Christina Starr. Christina translated for us at each of our visits to the different organizations. First the representative from the organization would talk to us, with Christina translating. Then we would have a question and answer session. Many of the students on the trip, including myself, do not speak Spanish. It was a great learning experience to face the challenges of communication between different languages. It taught me patience, respect, group reliance, and the skills to reframe my questions.

I learned patience through the time in takes for the translation, waiting for a person to help me speak to others, and patience with myself to try and communicate effectively with people. Waiting for the translator to translate can be a very positive thing. For instance, many times this space gave me time to really comprehend what the person was sharing with me and also it gave me a chance to clearly form my questions. The respect was developed through watching the difficultly that Christina sometimes faced with translating. Many of the talks we had were emotional. Christina had to translate some very sad, tragic stories for us. On one occasion it was clear how difficult this was for her. Watching her made me feel not only for the person’s story, but also the humanity and compassion that I saw in Christina.

Cristina Starr speaking to union members at a clothing factory.

I also gained respect and group reliance for my classmates. It was inspirational to watch my classmates who do know Spanish speak with the Salvadorians. When learning a foreign language there are always differences in each country or even community regarding slang and local sayings of that particular language. It is impossible for a student to learn all of these differences. So, for many who did know Spanish there was still some barriers. I enjoyed watching the interaction and the relationships that were developed.

In social work it is critical to have good communication skills. Sometimes when asking a question we don’t get answers that we need. Through this trip and the translation process I was able to work on my communication skills and reframing. Sometimes I just needed to ask the question a little bit differently and then the person understood what I was trying to ask. I learned to just keep trying and not to give up when my questions are not understood.

Most importantly I learned to reach out and help someone who is struggling with a language barrier. I know for myself when I felt lost and frustrated, the friendly smile of a stranger trying to help me really made me feel great. And lastly, we don’t only speak through language, but also through our body language. There were several times I “talked” with someone without speaking a word. Sometimes a smile or hug really does say everything.