International Translation Day

International Translation Day History

International Translation Day is dedicated to celebrating the indispensable role of translators and interpreters in promoting mutual understanding among different languages and cultures. This event highlights the significance of professional language services in diplomacy, commerce, education, and cultural exchange. Recognizing the contributions of language professionals, the observance aims to provide a platform for dialogue and cooperation within the language industry and promote higher standards of performance and professionalism among its practitioners.

Established by the International Federation of Translators (FIT) in 1953, International Translation Day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2017 as an official UN observance. For the American context, the United States is a multilingual and multicultural nation in which over 350 languages are spoken. The country's diversity necessitates the services of translators and interpreters to facilitate seamless communication and understanding among different linguistic and cultural communities. These language professionals contribute to the socioeconomic development and social cohesion of the nation, helping to bridge the linguistic gaps in various sectors, such as public services, the judiciary, health care, and business.

International Translation Day is observed in America through various activities organized by professional translation and interpreting associations, educational institutions, and individual practitioners. These events may consist of conferences, seminars, workshops, networking opportunities, and award ceremonies recognizing outstanding contributions to the field. Additionally, people working in and associated with this industry use social media and other platforms to raise awareness on the importance of translation and interpreting services. International Translation Day is observed annually on September 30th, coinciding with the feast day of St. Jerome, the patron saint of translators.

International Translation Day facts

• The theme of International Translation Day in 2025 was Language Technologies for All. In 2024 the theme was Translation, an Art Worth Protecting. In 2023 the theme was Translation unveils the many faces of humanity.
• Aside from the Bible, the most translated book of all times is The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery.
• St. Jerome was the first person to translate the Bible into Latin from the original Hebrew, making it accessible to a larger audience.
• The word "translation" comes from Latin. It originally meant to "carry from one place to another."
• The most commonly translated word on Google translate is "beautiful." Other often translated words include "colleague", "good", "work", "Thursday" and "mama".

In the News and Trending in the US for International Translation Day

Top things to do in the US for International Translation Day

• Read Found in Translation: How Language Shapes Our Lives and Transforms the World by Nataly Kelly, Jost Zetzsche.
• Many use this day to take a moment to appreciate the work put in by translators and interpreters.
• Some choose to celebrate the day by starting to learn a new language, signifying the importance of translation in communication.

References