The Importance of Language

I'm considering becoming a full-time professional interpreter, because it simply pains me to witness bigotry caused by a language barrier and, well, bigots.

Long story short, I was translating for someone at the IRS office when he got escorted out by security for using a cell phone to obtain information that the IRS required. He didn't speak a word of English and thus couldn't have read the no cell phone sign. And he sure didn't understand why the IRS receptionist rudely pointed at the sign and even more rudely shouted at him to get off the phone. He did get the gist when she started just staring and pointing at his phone, and shuffled off to another area of the room. But apparently that was not good enough, and she promptly called security to escort him out. All in about a minute. I actually did translate and tell the guy that no cell usage was allowed, but he probably couldn't hear me over the receptionist's loudness. She KNEW he couldn't speak English either because I specifically told her that I would be interpreting for him and have done exactly so. But no. Won't give the poor guy a freaking chance or even ask me to tell him.

Lesson learned, I will look for whatever rules in the venue and translate as soon as possible. Ultimately though, the Houston IRS office needs to hire a receptionist who understands that her actual job is in customer service.