The profession of interpreting is directly linked to consumers who rely upon the linguistic
skill, cultural competence, ethical conduct, and professional dispositions of qualified
interpreters to provide them with equal access to information. The norms for a signed language
interpreter’s behavior that align with a standard of quality are of particular interest
when contemplating how interpreters could be involved within the Deaf community. This
paper addresses the ongoing discussion in the U.S. about (1) preparing signed language
interpreters to share common goals and form alliances with the community, and (2)
ethical perceptions of collaboration outside the interpreted event that do not violate the
organizational code of conduct. Realizing that issues such as trust, clear role definition,
ethical norms, and “maintaining professional relationships” (Australian Institute of Interpreters
and Translators, 2012) have similarities across nations and their various codes
of ethics, a perceived gap in the U.S. between professional interpreters and consumers is
the catalyst for evaluating options that will close this gap.
