OHCIA stands with Ukraine

The world has seen enormous upheaval over the last several years. COVID’s toll on the world was unimaginable and unprecedented, in our modern times. And, as we began to move out of the ravages of this disease, we must now turn our eyes and hearts toward the tragedy in Ukraine. For many of us, we never saw this coming, we could never imagine one country attacking another country, especially on the heels of worldwide devastation by COVID. And, here we are, watching the unimaginable, seeing with our own eyes, millions of Ukrainians being displaced from their homes, split from their loved ones, and separated from their beloved country in a matter of weeks.

Some of us have witnessed this type of atrocity in human history and while one would think we would never see such actions again, we do. We have witnessed innocent and vulnerable communities bear the burden of what a few leaders have created. The United States has been built by immigrants, many of whom are refugees and asylees. Countless, if not most, immigrants arrive at our doorstep as they flee for their lives (and their families), fearing death, torture and devastation.

On the behalf of OHCIA, we want to extend our deepest sympathy for the citizens of Ukraine. We firmly stand with the people of Ukraine and continue to condemn the unprovoked war on Ukraine. OHCIA supports our diverse populations, and we know from history that situations like this can cause undue pressure and tension on interpreters, patients and providers here in America. We know, however, that interpreters view their profession as being the bridge for accessing health care for all those who need their services and will preserve that duty with honor for the good of all patients. We do not support any behaviors that would be deleterious to our communities be it, interpreters, patients and providers. While what we are all witnessing is horrific, we ask everyone to be mindful that the populations that have immigrated here for decades believe in the values of peace and equality, they too are horrified by these actions of an unprovoked war against Ukraine.

Sincerely,

OHCIA Board of Directors and Executive Director