National Interpreter Appreciation Day

National Interpreter Appreciation Day celebrates the dedicated professionals who break down language barriers and facilitate communication across different languages and modes of expression, including sign language.

Quick Facts

When is it: First Wednesday of May annually
Tagged as: Language, Communication, Professional Recognition
What’s the hashtag: #InterpreterAppreciationDay
When was it founded: 2013
Who founded it: Joshua Jones via a Facebook initiative

History

The day emerged from the growing recognition of interpreters’ vital role in our increasingly globalized world. What started as a social media movement has evolved into a widely celebrated professional recognition day, acknowledging the complex skills and dedication required in interpretation services.

Timeline

17th Century: Development of modern sign language
2013: Creation of first interpreter appreciation Facebook page
2023: Recognition expands to include all forms of interpretation
2024: Global celebration across multiple sectors

Dates by Year

Year	Date	Day
2024	May 1	Wednesday
2025	May 7	Wednesday
2026	May 6	Wednesday
2027	May 5	Wednesday
2028	May 3	Wednesday

How It’s Observed

Sending appreciation cards to interpreters
Learning basic phrases in different languages
Practicing sign language basics
Recognizing interpreters in workplaces
Sharing stories about interpretation experiences

Fun Facts About Interpreters

There are approximately 6,500 languages worldwide
Sign language varies by country
Brain damage affects sign language similar to verbal language
American Sign Language uses one hand for alphabets
Interpreters often specialize in specific fields like medical or legal

Quiz

How many languages exist worldwide?
What makes someone a polyglot?
When did humans first start using language?
(Answers: 1. 6,500 2. Speaking more than five languages 3. Around 50,000 years ago)