Chapter 3
Helpers, professional authority, and pathologized bodies
Ableism in interpretation and translation
In this paper, we examine how ableism,
undergirded by interlocking systems of oppression mediated by our
social locations, exists in this profession with interpreters and
translators acting as professional authorities-cum-helpers for
pathologized bodyminds. The intersections of the nature of
interpretation, professional authority, and inherent powers of
influence granted to nondisabled people result in violence masked
by a veneer of benevolence (Kent
2007; Mole
2018; Robinson,
Sheneman, and Henner 2020). In this chapter, we highlight
how Chapman and Withers’
(2019) concept of toxic benevolence in social work can be
applied to interpretation. We explore and suggest
cripping as a means of mediating power
relations in interpretation work through a critical disability
framework.
Article outline
- 1.Introduction
- 2.Dis/ability as a framework
- 3.The imbalance of power within helping professions
- 4.The interpretation profession
- 5.Professionalism in interpreting as power over
dis/abled
- 6.Concluding remarks
-
Notes
-
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