International Translation Day is a significant event celebrated annually on September 30. This date was chosen to honor St. Jerome, the Bible translator who is considered the patron saint of translators and linguists. The day serves to highlight the vital role of translation in fostering global communication and cooperation. In 2021, the theme “United in translation” underscored the unifying power of language services. The commemoration of this day has been ongoing since 1953, coinciding with the establishment of the International Federation of Translators (FIT). It gained further recognition when the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed a resolution in 2017 to formally acknowledge the importance of professional translation.
History and Significance of International Translation Day
International Translation Day can trace its roots back to 1953 with the creation of the FIT, an international grouping of associations of translators, interpreters, and terminologists. The organization’s primary goal is to protect their interests and promote professionalism within the industry. The selection of September 30 aligns with the death anniversary of St. Jerome, who translated the Bible into Latin and made it accessible to a broader audience. This act of translation is seen as one of the earliest and most influential examples of the importance of translation in history.
The day not only commemorates St. Jerome’s contributions but also serves to celebrate the hard work and dedication of language professionals. These experts bridge language barriers and cultural divides, enabling dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among nations and peoples. Their work is crucial in various domains including politics, economics, science, and technology, ensuring that communication remains uninterrupted and accurate across different languages.
Themes and Celebrations
Every year, International Translation Day is marked by a specific theme that reflects the current trends and challenges in the translation industry. For instance, the theme for 2021, “United in translation,” emphasized the collaborative spirit of the translation community in bringing people together despite linguistic differences. Such themes help to focus attention on particular aspects of translation and interpreting work and encourage discussions about the profession’s evolution and future.
Celebrations of this day often involve conferences, seminars, workshops, and a variety of social media campaigns aimed at increasing the visibility of translators and interpreters. Professional organizations and educational institutions may also host events to honor language professionals, provide networking opportunities, and discuss advancements in translation technology and practices.
Recognition and Advocacy
The UNGA resolution in 2017 was a significant step in formally recognizing the importance of translation in connecting the world. It acknowledged that professional translation, as a trade and an art, plays an important role in upholding justice, promoting peace, and enhancing cultural diversity. This recognition has helped in advocating for the rights of translators and interpreters and in emphasizing the need for high-quality translation services.
Advocacy efforts on International Translation Day also focus on the working conditions of translators and interpreters, including fair remuneration, professional development, and the importance of their role in society. International organizations, governments, and other stakeholders are encouraged to support and invest in the translation industry to facilitate clear and effective global communication.
Global Awareness and Collaboration
One of the main objectives of International Translation Day is to raise global awareness about the translation industry and its impact on international relations. By highlighting the work of translators and interpreters, the day aims to show how these professionals contribute to the spread of knowledge, ideas, and cultural expressions across different languages.
Furthermore, the day promotes collaboration among translation professionals worldwide. By sharing best practices, tools, and resources, the translation community works together to improve standards and address common challenges. This collective effort ensures that the quality of translation services continues to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world, where effective communication is essential for progress and mutual understanding.
