International Translation Day, celebrated annually on September 30th, is a global tribute to the indispensable role translators, interpreters, and language professionals play in fostering understanding and communication across linguistic borders. Here’s a closer look at how it all began, why it’s celebrated, and why it matters today.
Origins of International Translation Day
– Date significance: September 30th marks the feast day of St. Jerome, the patron saint of translators, who is best known for translating the Bible into Latin.
– Inception: The idea of an official day to celebrate translation was first proposed by the International Federation of Translators (FIT) in 1953.
– Formal recognition: In 2017, the United Nations General Assembly officially recognized September 30th as International Translation Day, giving the celebration global legitimacy.
Why International Translation Day Matters
– Bridging cultural gaps: Translators and interpreters are key players in breaking down cultural barriers by allowing people from different backgrounds to communicate effectively.
– Global business: With international trade, commerce, and diplomacy dependent on multilingual communication, professional translators ensure businesses can operate smoothly across borders.
– Diplomacy and peacekeeping: Accurate translation is crucial in international relations, where even minor misunderstandings can escalate conflicts or hinder peace negotiations.
– Preserving languages: Translators play a role in preserving endangered languages by creating literature and documentation in those tongues, contributing to cultural diversity.
– Access to knowledge: Scientific, medical, and technological advancements are shared globally thanks to the work of translators, ensuring everyone has access to vital information.
– Entertainment industry: From films and literature to video games and TV shows, translators make global content accessible to local audiences, helping cultures share stories and creativity.
The Role of Translators in Today’s World
– Legal translation: Accurate translation of legal documents is critical for ensuring justice across jurisdictions and maintaining legal compliance in international law.
– Healthcare translation: In medical settings, clear communication can be a matter of life and death. Translators ensure patients receive the right information and care, regardless of language barriers.
– Certified translation: Certified professionals ensure the integrity of legal and governmental documents, such as immigration papers, contracts, and birth certificates.
– Technology translation: As technology continues to evolve, translators are needed to localize software, apps, and websites for different linguistic markets.
– Humanitarian work: In times of crisis, such as natural disasters or conflicts, translators help aid workers communicate with affected populations, delivering timely and accurate support.
Why Celebrate Translators?
– Recognition of expertise: Professional translators undergo rigorous training to master the nuances of language and culture, deserving acknowledgment for their contributions.
– Support for fair working conditions: By celebrating this day, we also highlight the need for fair wages and recognition for freelance translators who often work under tight deadlines.
– Encouraging multilingualism: Celebrating this day raises awareness of the importance of learning new languages, fostering greater empathy, understanding, and cooperation among cultures.
How You Can Participate
– Spread the word: Share stories and quotes about the impact of translators on social media.
– Support translators: Work with certified professionals for your business and personal needs to recognize their value.
– Learn a language: Start learning a new language to appreciate the complexity of communication.
– Join events: Many organizations host webinars, conferences, or events to honour language professionals—consider participating in these activities.
International Translation Day is more than a celebration of language skills; it’s an acknowledgment of the people who ensure that our world remains interconnected, inclusive, and informed. Let’s take a moment on September 30th to celebrate the unsung heroes behind the scenes—translators!