Change Begins with Communication

The interpreting profession (sign language interpreters here in the US, at least) is much different today than it was when I started interpreting in the '70s.  Then, people became interpreters because they knew deaf people; as family, friends, educators, etc.  Today, college students take ASL as a foreign language and become interested in the field of interpreting and pursue a career.  Their connection with the deaf community is different.
It is time for an open dialogue between these groups, inviting all interpreters from the oldest to the youngest to share in formulating the essential values our professional holds as part of our mission.  But how do we begin those conversations?  How do we have them with a shared intent to align our actions in ways that benefit the stake-holders?
It begins with dialogue.
This is a 'doable action' we can undertake as leaders in the profession and allies to the deaf community.