Page 50 - UFCW Union Steward Handbook
P. 50

STEWARD’S ROLE IN REPRESENTING IMMIGRANT WORKERS

          Interpretation and Translation
          As a steward, you may represent co-workers whose first language is not
          English (perhaps your own first language is not English).

          l You can help to assist immigrant workers by noticing when language
            may be a barrier to their full participation at work and/ or within
            our union.
          l You can also help to recruit more stewards who are bilingual/
            multilingual.

          All workers deserve to understand and be understood. The language
          tools we use to accomplish this are interpretation and translation.
          Sometimes, it may seem like translation and interpretation are new
          ideas; but for over a century, workers of different nationalities have
          found ways to join together using these approaches.
          l Translation allows written language to be understood in another
            language.
          l Interpretation allows spoken language to be understood in another
            language.
          There are different ways of doing interpretation, and some are more
          effective than others. As a steward, you should discuss the interpretation
          and translation needs you observe with your union representative.
          Under OSHA, employers are required to offer safety and health
          information and training in a way that workers can understand (in
          other languages, at different reading levels, etc).
          When union events are held, it’s important to let people know in
          advance if interpretation will be provided, as this may help to recruit
          more participants. Whenever possible, union contracts, newsletters,
          webpages and other forms of communication should be translated.



          THANK YOU
          Along with reminding members that THEY are our union, stewards
          wear many hats—as organizers, communicators, educators, problem-
          solvers and leaders. Your efforts in all of these areas truly make a
          difference.


          48                                  UFCW UNION STEWARD HANDBOOK
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