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On the Translation of Fear: A Study of Ecuadorian Kichwa Speakers and the US Immigration System
Bova, Gustin
Bova, Gustin
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Abstract
This study addresses the situation of Ecuadorian Kichwa-speaking migrants who, upon arriving at the
US border (and being put into Expedited Removal), claim a fear of returning to Ecuador. The study draws
data primarily from the Credible Fear Interview stage of this process. The author performed interviews
with Kichwa-English interpreters who have worked in Credible Fear Interviews, and complemented this
with bibliographic investigation. The study ultimately argues that conflicting understandings grounded
in language, class, and culture, along with procedural issues, are likely leading officials to deny the
Credible Fear claims, and applications for relief, of Ecuadorian Kichwa speakers at an excessive rate. The
study draws on the experience and judgments of interpreters, viewing them as both credible experts and
constituents of the process itself. The study concludes with questions for further research and points for
practical consideration.
Description
This is the published version, made available with the permission of the publisher.
This article was published in the Fall 2015 issue of the Journal of Undergraduate Research
This article was published in the Fall 2015 issue of the Journal of Undergraduate Research
Date
2015-10-01
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Publisher
University of Kansas