Indigenous Language Translation Services
Wintranslation is one of the few professional companies providing translation services into Indigenous languages in Canada. We understand the profound cultural and historical significance of these languages and are committed to ensuring they thrive in the modern world.
Languages & Dialects That We Translate
Our team of expert linguists and translators is deeply passionate about Indigenous languages, and dedicated to their preservation and revitalization. With years of experience in Indigenous language translation, we bring a unique blend of linguistic expertise and cultural sensitivity to every project.
Thanks to our strong relationships, deep respect, and ongoing collaboration with Indigenous language knowledge keepers and elders, we are proud to provide translation services for 40 out of the 60+ Indigenous languages spoken in Canada.
Click on any of the languages below to learn more.
Michif
Mi’kmaq
Mohawk (Kanien’kéha)
Moose Cree (ililîmowin)
Nakoda (Stoney)
Naskapi (iyuw iyimuun)
Nedut’en–Witsuwitʼen (Babine)
Nisg̱a’a (Niska)
North Slavey (Dene Kǝdǝ́)
Northern Tutchone
Nuu-chah-nulth (Nootka)
Our Indigenous Language Translation Services include :
- Document Translation
- Dialect consultation
- Cultural review
- Audio Video Translation
- e-Learning Translation
- Interpreting
- Plain text translation
- Brochure Translation
Indigenous Language Translation Considerations
Many Indigenous languages are rare and vulnerable, with a significant number classified as endangered or critically endangered. Translating into these languages requires a specialized approach distinct from more commonly spoken languages. Our team has the necessary experience and expertise to navigate these unique challenges. Here are some key considerations:
- Language Experts First: For many Indigenous languages, the number of working translators is limited, which means they are in high demand! Indigenous translators are, for the most part, not full-time translators but first and foremost they are masters of the language, and often teachers or community leaders.
- Oral Traditions: Indigenous languages have a rich history of being primarily oral. This has led to substantial linguistic variation, influenced by geographical location, generational differences, and even individual speakers.
- Cultural Respect: Revision practices in Indigenous translation may differ due to cultural norms. Quality control is approached with sensitivity, as small communities highly value interpersonal relationships.
- Live languages: Usually, translators recreate, borrow, adapt terms to express some concepts and this could be subjective but still faithful to the source text.
Why Choose Us?
- Free dialect consultation: Are you unsure about which dialect is best suited for your project? At wintranslation, we provide a complimentary dialect consultation to assist you in making an informed decision.
- Commitment to cultural sensitivity and accuracy: Our dedication to cultural sensitivity is at the core of our translation process. We actively engage in direct collaboration with Indigenous language keepers to ensure that our translations are not only linguistically accurate but also culturally authentic.
- Tailored solutions to meet your specific needs: Whether it’s a complex multi-language project or a niche translation need, we have the expertise and resources to deliver results that exceed your expectations.
- Consistency and Quality Assurance: We employ cutting-edge translation technologies to ensure terminological consistency. Our rigorous quality control process guarantees quality, consistency, and well-formatted translated documents.
Many thanks to Lauren Polchies, a Wolastogiyik graphic designer from Woodstock First Nation for working with us to create an infographic about the Indigenous Languages in Canada.
Click on the image above to view the full image.
Our Indigenous Language Translation Process:
What our Indigenous Language Translation Clients are Saying
Featured Clients
