News from the California Federation of Interpreters Picket Line

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October 11, 2007

SAY WHAT?

New Information Shines Light on How Courts Are (Not) Functioning During Strike

Those of you who were present at the "A Black Day for Justice" rally were informed by our rep, Mary Lou Aranguren, of all the information that is being gathered and the work that is being done in preparation for Monday's Senate Hearing. Many of the interpreters you do not see on the picket line are going into various courthouses throughout the county in order to personally observe how the court system is working in our absence. Many of the things our colleagues have observed are chilling.

Two examples, we have been advised that in Norwalk, a murder case, possibly with special circumstances, is being handled by a non-certified interpreter. In Long Beach, it was reported that a case requiring a Khmer language interpreter with numerous victims/witnesses requiring an interpreter was reduced to time served. We are continuing to gather additional information on the impacts of our absence.

Friday Rally - CCB - The Color is Black

Let's keep on serenading the judges at CCB where we'll rally from 11 to 2. Interpreters voted to wear black again and we can be sure that Alicia Grubic and Claudia Antelo will once again work their menu magic.

Senate Hearing

When: MONDAY, OCTOBER 15, 9-12
Where: Ronald Reagan Building 300 S. Spring Street
As you all know by now, Senator Gloria Romero has scheduled hearings as head of the Senate Public Safety Committee and a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee to inquire about the impact the strike is having on the non-English speaking communities and also to determine how the bargaining process broke down to the point that 90% of the Court's interpreter employees have been on strike for 5 weeks.

It is critical that ALL interpreters attend. We will meet at CCB at 8 a.m. sharp and walk together to the hearings. Remember, Monday is BLUE so wear your most ELECTRIC BLUE.

Meeting Immediately After Hearing on Monday

Immediately following the hearing there will be a meeting for all interpreters. Come and make your voice heard!!!!

P.S. CFI President, Silvia Barden received a call from Attorney General, Jerry Brown on Thursday evening during which he indicated that he has written a strong letter to John Clarke and Presiding Judge Czuleger urging them to resolve this strike.