Language Access Is a Human Right: Omari Jeremiah on Youth, Policy & Systemic Change
Language isn’t just a tool for communication — it’s a gateway to opportunity, safety, and dignity.
In this episode of Connected Conversations, Omari Jeremiah, Founding Director of Next Generation Language Access, joins Elena Petrova to discuss why language access must be treated as a fundamental human right — especially in education, healthcare, and legal systems.
With more than ten years of experience as a professional interpreter, trainer, and youth advocate, Omari brings a grounded, community-centered perspective to the conversation.
From Interpretation to Advocacy
Omari’s work extends beyond the interpreter role. As a licensed interpreter trainer for over eight years, he has trained high school students and multilingual professionals to become certified community interpreters — creating career pathways and economic mobility for first- and second-generation immigrants.
His approach recognizes that representation matters: when people from the community become professionals, leaders, and advocates, trust and confidence grow collectively.
Why Professional Interpreting Matters
A key theme in the episode is the danger of relying on untrained language support — including family members or children — in sensitive settings.
Omari explains how informal interpretation can lead to misunderstandings, emotional harm, and even legal risk. Professional interpreters bring training, ethics, confidentiality, and cultural awareness that informal support simply cannot replace.
Policy, Partnerships & Real Change
Omari also shares how grassroots advocacy led to language access legislation in Baltimore, proving that community-driven efforts can influence policy when paired with education and coalition-building.
Through partnerships with nonprofits, schools, and local organizations, Next Generation Language Access expands interpreter training and strengthens systems designed to serve multilingual communities.
Looking Ahead
Demand for professional interpreters is growing across healthcare, education, social services, and legal sectors. Omari’s work focuses on preparing the next generation to meet that demand, not only as interpreters but as leaders shaping more inclusive systems.
Final Reflection
Language access is not about convenience, it’s about fairness, opportunity, and human dignity.
🎧 Listen now to hear how Omari Jeremiah is building pathways where language becomes a bridge, not a barrier.
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