International Translation Day 2019: A Day in the Life of a Translator or Interpreter

By Molly Yurick

A United Nations resolution passed in 2017 recognizes International Translation Day (ITD) as the day to pay tribute to the work of language professionals. To commemorate this huge step for our profession, ATA is celebrating in a big way on September 30, 2019. We just need your help to make it happen!

What’s the big deal?

How often do you meet people who don’t know what translators and interpreters do, or how many times have you cringed when you heard a translator referred to as an interpreter and vice versa? How often have you had to explain to friends or family members that, yes, you do make a living as a translator or interpreter? How often do you encounter people in your community who are unaware of the role language services play in our world? Probably all too often!

What’s the plan?

On International Translation Day (September 30, 2019), ATA will unveil an informational video taking viewers through a day in the life of a translator or interpreter. The video will help you get the word out to both your professional and personal network—people who may be unfamiliar with what you do—about the importance of your profession and your role in it.

I’m in. What do I need to do?

• Follow ATA on social media (YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram) and share the video on your own social media accounts on September 30. You can also visit ATA’s ITD page on September 30, download the video, and post it on your own social media accounts. In your social media posts, we would love to see you tell us what a day in your life as a translator or interpreter looks like!
• Find out if your local ATA chapter or affiliate will be hosting a gathering to celebrate translators and interpreters. If not, consider hosting one yourself!
• Schedule a School Outreach presentation in honor of ITD. Now is the time to teach the next generation of translators and interpreters about our exciting and growing profession. Materials and inspiration can be found at ATA’s School Outreach page.

Don’t let ITD19 pass you by! Get out there and tell the world about the important work you do as a language professional!

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Molly Yurick is a Spanish>English translator specializing in the tourism, hospitality, and airline industries. She has worked as a medical interpreter in Minnesota and as a cultural ambassador for the Ministry of Education in Spain. She has a BA in Spanish and global studies and a certificate in medical interpreting from the University of Minnesota. She is currently living in northern Spain. Contact: molly@yuricktranslations.com.