R-e-s-p-e-c-t

Find out what it means to me:

And I apologize to Sister Ree for that...

Anyway, it struck me yesterday that the key difference between the RID Code of Ethics that I grew up with, and the RID Code of Professional Conduct is the word respect.

Here is the Code I grew up with (it is out of date so the link may not last forever):

The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, Inc. has set forth the following principles of ethical behavior to protect and guide interpreters and transliterators and hearing and deaf consumers. Underlying these principles is the desire to insure for all the right to communicate.

This Code of Ethics applies to all members of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, Inc. and to all certified non-members.

Interpreters/transliterators shall keep all assignment-related information strictly confidential.

Interpreters/transliterators shall render the message faithfully, always conveying the content and spirit of the speaker using language most readily understood by the person(s) whom they serve.

Interpreters/transliterators shall not counsel, advise or interject personal opinions.

Interpreters/transliterators shall accept assignments using discretion with regard to skill, setting, and the consumers involved.

Interpreters/transliterators shall request compensation for services in a professional and judicious manner.

Interpreters/transliterators shall function in a manner appropriate to the situation.

Interpreters/transliterators shall strive to further knowledge and skills through participation in work-shops, professional meetings, interaction with professional colleagues, and reading of current literature in the field.

Interpreters/transliterators, by virtue of membership or certification by the RID, Inc., shall strive to maintain high professional standards in compliance with the Code of Ethics.

And here is the short form of the current Code of Professional Conduct (underline emphasis mine):

A code of professional conduct is a necessary component to any profession to maintain standards for the individuals within that profession to adhere. It brings about accountability, responsibility and trust to the individuals that the profession serves.

RID, along with the National Association of the Deaf (NAD), co-authored the ethical code of conduct for interpreters. Both organizations uphold high standards of professionalism and ethical conduct for interpreters. At the core of this code of conduct are the seven tenets, which are followed by guiding principles and illustrations.

The tenets are to be viewed holistically and as a guide to complete professional behavior. When in doubt, one should refer to the explicit language of the tenet.

TENETS
Interpreters adhere to standards of confidential communication.

Interpreters possess the professional skills and knowledge required for the specific interpreting situation.

Interpreters conduct themselves in a manner appropriate to the specific interpreting situation.

Interpreters demonstrate respect for consumers.

Interpreters demonstrate respect for colleagues, interns, and students of the profession.

Interpreters maintain ethical business practices.

Interpreters engage in professional development.


I suppose it is like common sense - which isn't all that common. I grew up with the assumption that all people deserve respect, including me. So I respect those with whom I work. They may not do things my way, they may not sign my way. But the goal of the job is to communicate, not be right.

There is so much I could say on this subject that I suspect it will become a new series.

Today I just ask that you look over the two codes. See the differences and ponder with me: why was it necessary to remind us to be respectful of each other?