After more than 50 years interpreting for global leaders, Olympic athletes, scientists, and policymakers, I’m still asked a question that cuts to the core of our profession:
Are interpreters just invisible messengers — or are we co-protagonists in the communication process?
Let me share a few thoughts.
Not Machines, Not Parrots
Interpreters are expected to disappear behind the speaker’s words. We don’t embellish, edit, or express personal opinions. Our job is to be transparent conduits of meaning.
But make no mistake: that doesn’t make us machines.We capture nuance, tone, emotion, and irony across languages and cultures in real-time, under immense pressure. One wrong word can derail a negotiation, offend a delegate, or distort a message.
Working in the Shadows
Yes, much of our work happens behind the scenes. The best interpretation flows so naturally that the audience forgets we’re even there. Like stage lighting in a theater — when done right, it supports everything, yet draws no attention.
But invisibility does not mean irrelevance.Without us, the message doesn’t reach the room. Without us, understanding stops where language begins.
The Speaker, in Another Tongue
When we interpret well, the audience laughs, feels moved, and takes action — in another language.That’s not a coincidence. That’s presence, discipline, and skill.
For a few minutes, we become the speaker in another tongue.Their ideas, emotions, and intent pass through our voice, our choice of words, and our ethical compass.
We don’t steal the spotlight. But we do keep the lights on.
We Are Not “Little Boxes That Translate”
We are professionals who make critical decisions in milliseconds, choosing the most accurate, respectful, and culturally appropriate terms.A machine doesn’t adapt to political tone.A box doesn’t listen with empathy.
We do.
Essential, Even When Unseen
I don’t interpret to be heard.I interpret so that others can be heard — across borders, ideologies, and languages.
Are we as important as the speakers we interpret?We may not always seem to be.But without us, many voices would go unheard, many deals undone, many ideas unshared.
And that, to me, is having a voice — even if it’s not your own.
If you’re an interpreter, have worked with one, or have thoughts about the visibility of language professionals in global communication, I’d love to hear your perspective.
Sergio is a chemical microbiologist, licensed interpreter, and the founding president of Colegio Mexicano de Intérpretes de Conferencias.
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