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