International Translation Day | Kidadl

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International Translation Day

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Where is International Translation Day celebrated?  

 International Translation Day is celebrated in several countries in the world.

Who is International Translation Day celebrated by?

On this day, the United Nations honor hundreds of language professionals and interpreters that work in its office and encourages other organizations and individuals to do the same.

When did International Translation Day first start?

The International Federation of Translators (FIT) has been celebrating this day since 1953. However, the first formal celebration of the day took place in 1991.

Who started International Translation Day?

Although the International Federation of Translators (FIT) had been celebrating International Translation Day since 1991, the day was formally announced by the United Nations on May 24, 2017 when it adopted a resolution to honor language professionals who unite the world by ensuring smooth communication.

The United Nations employs thousands of translators from different parts of the world to facilitate dialogue and promote world peace.

History And Timeline

Translation plays a crucial role in connecting people from all over the world. In honor of International Translation Day, read about the history of translation and the several events that led to the creation of this holiday below.

4th Century AD

Bible Translated To Latin

St. Jerome wrote Latin Bible after translating it from Hebrew.

1946

UN's Official Languages

The United Nations declared English, Russian, Chinese, French, and Spanish as its five official languages.

1953

Launch Of FIT

The International Federation of Translators (FIT) was founded.

1991

First Celebration

The International Federation of Translators (FIT) organized the first formal celebration of International Translation Day.

2017

UN's International Translation Day

The United Nations declared September 30 as International Translation Day.

Traditions And Customs

On September 30, the United Nations declared International Translation Day to recognize language professionals worldwide. This day aims to raise awareness of the importance of the translation industry, especially in the age of globalization. It also highlights the critical role that translators and language specialists play in promoting global understanding, improving dialogue, and facilitating communication and cooperation. The International Federation of Translators announces a specific theme to commemorate this day each year. In 2021, for example, the theme was 'United In Translation.'

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate International Translation Day 

Learn a new language.

Read about different cultures and their languages.

Share your views on the importance of translators with friends and family.

If you know a translator, click a picture with them and share it on social media.

Facts And Stats

The United Nations picked September 30 as International Translation Day because it coincides with the feast of St. Jerome, who is regarded as the patron saint of translators.

On International Translation Day, the United Nations encourages its staff members and university students to contend in the UN St. Jerome Translation Contest, which awards prizes for top translations in English, Arabic, French, German, Chinese, Russian, and Spanish.

According to most translators, Spanish is one of the easiest languages to translate, along with French, Romanian, and Portuguese. So, if you want to learn a new language on International Translation Day, you can start with any of these.

FAQs About International Translation Day

WHO declared the International Translation Day?

No, the United Nations declared September 30 as International Translation Day in 2017.

What is the significance of International Translation Day?

A minor miscommunication can lead to huge misunderstandings and unfavorable outcomes. Language professionals, translators, and interpreters focus their efforts on ensuring that such incidents never occur, and that is what International Translation Day celebrates every year.

How is International Translation Day different from Mother Language Day?

While International Translation Day is observed to celebrate the work of language specialists in fostering international dialogue and worldwide peace, International Mother Tongue Day promotes multilingualism and raises awareness about linguistic and cultural diversity.

What is the history and origin of International Translation Day?

International Translation Day was first celebrated by the International Federation of Translators (FIT) in 1991. In 2017, the United Nations adopted a resolution to honor the efforts of the translation industry and announced September 30 as International Translation Day.

What is special about International Translation Day?

This day aims to draw public attention to the critical role that a translator plays in ensuring smooth interpersonal communication, fostering cooperation, and supporting worldwide peace.

Hashtags To Use On Social Media

#InternationalTranslationDay

When Is This Day Celebrated

Date Day
September 30, 2020 Wednesday
September 30, 2021 Thursday
September 30, 2022 Friday
September 30, 2023 Saturday
September 30, 2024 Monday

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