Reframing Interpreter's Identity in an English as a Lingua Franca World: An Autoethnographic Exploration

In the context of English as a Lingua Franca (ELF), interpreters increasingly work with clients with higher levels of English proficiency. Interpreters often find themselves remaining silent during conversations, sometimes dealing with non-interpreting tasks. This oxymoron of 'silent interpreter' creates a self-perceived identity crisis for interpreters. Little attention has been given to how interpreters navigate this challenge. This autoethnographic study examines the first author's experience as both an interpreter and researcher during the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games through a narrative inquiry approach. The findings reveal that ELF is perceived as an imminent threat to professional identity. Assuming non-interpreting roles generates frustration and a sense of misalignment with the roles prescribed by conventional code of ethics. However, this identity crisis is reconciled by recognizing the value embedded in these expanded responsibilities, which draw on the linguistic and executive abilities developed through professional interpreting training. Reframing interpreter's identity requires embracing a broader spectrum of tasks beyond the conventional role of linguistic transfer, including cultural mediation, communication facilitation, and language consultation. This reframing of professional identity not only helps the reconciliation with the self-perceived identity crisis, but could also empower interpreters at large to adapt to new realities brought by ELF. The research contributes to the discussion of role, identity and ethics in interpreting theory, practice and education.