In 2004, the American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island filed a complaint with the U.S. Justice Department's Civil Rights Division "against the state [of Rhode Island] for failing to provide appropriate language interpreter services in criminal court proceedings to Limited English Proficient [LEP] persons." Recognizing the widespread lack of adequate interpretation services from courtrooms to administrative offices to doctors' offices, Roberto Tijerina developed a workshop to give people the skills and frameworks to interpret for social justice. Last summer, he brought the workshop to Providence where local activists and students who were already serving as interpreters in their communities came together to share their experiences and learn how to use interpreting as a tool for promoting justice. 

For a Spanish version of the story, click the Soundcloud link below.