On 30 September, International Translation Day is celebrated, a day that was first established in 1953 by the International Federation of Translators (FIT), but was only officially recognised many years later, in 1991.
This day pays tribute to language professionals, highlighting the importance of literary translation as a tool for international dialogue.
Why this particular date?
The choice of 30 September is not accidental: on this day the feast of Saint Jerome is also celebrated. Saint Jerome is considered the patron saint of translators. An Italian monk, he was chosen for this role because he was the author of the Vulgate, the first translation of the Bible from Hebrew into Latin, which enabled Roman readers to understand the Holy Scriptures.
Why is International Translation Day worth celebrating?
The renowned Spanish translator García Yebra once said that “a translation must say everything the original says, say nothing the original does not say, and say it in the most correct and natural way possible in the language into which it is translated.” He added: “Translation is perhaps the most important process in the dissemination of culture.”
Translators have the task and the ability to connect the realities of two different cultures. Their presence is essential, and even if it is sometimes taken for granted, it plays a fundamental role in facilitating our everyday lives.
For us at Finking, this day is, of course, a way to celebrate our profession, one that we practise every day with great passion.
