Innu-aimun Translation Services
Innu-aimun, also known as Montagnais, is an Algonquian language spoken by more than 10,000 Innu people across Labrador and Quebec in Eastern Canada.
The geographical remoteness of the communities has contributed to the development of the Cree–Montagnais–Naskapi dialect continuum with multiple dialects that have phonological and lexical variations. Speakers of each dialect would likely be able to communicate with each other in their native languages, but only to some extent.
Our Innu-aimun Translation Services Include:
- Document Translation
- Dialect Consultation
- Audio Video Translation
- Cultural Content Review
- Reverse Translation
- Layout And Formatting
- Transcription
- Interpreting
Innu-aimun Language Translation Considerations
The Innu language is classified as “vulnerable” by UNESCO on its Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger. This designation means that while Innu is actively spoken by children in many Innu communities, it still faces challenges due to influences from dominant languages like English and French, especially in education and media. Our team has the necessary experience and expertise to navigate these unique challenges. Here are some key considerations:
- Multiple dialects: the Ilnu, Nehilaw, or “Western/Southern Montagnais” in the south, speak the “l”-dialect (Ilnu-Aimun or Nenueun / Neːhlweːuːn), and the Innu or “Eastern Montagnais” (“Central / Moisie Montagnais”, “Eastern/Lower North Shore Montagnais”, and “Labrador / North West River Montagnais”) live further north; they speak the “n”-dialect (Innu-Aimun)
- French into Innu: Historically, the second language spoken in the Innu communities is French, with only some people using English for work-related communication. Innu translators mostly translate from French, so they will need the source text in French.
- Linguistic Structure: Innu-aimun is a language known for its complex words that often combine multiple ideas into a single expression. It conveys key grammatical information directly on the main elements of a sentence, such as verbs. The sentence structure is flexible, allowing words to be rearranged in various orders without significantly altering the meaning.
Are you planning to expand your outreach to more Indigenous communities in Quebec? We offer translation services in Atikamekw, Algonquin, Inuktitut (Nunavik), Innu, and Naskapi.
Why Choose Us?
- Native translators: Our team includes skilled Innu-aimun translators who are native speakers with a deep understanding of the language and culture. They bring invaluable insights into the nuances of the language, ensuring that every translation reflects the true meaning and context.
- 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: Our commitment to quality goes beyond language proficiency. We understand the responsibility that comes with translating materials that will be used by and for the Innu community. That’s why we ensure every translation undergoes a thorough review process by native speakers and subject matter experts. This rigorous approach guarantees that our translations are not only accurate but also meaningful and relevant to the Innu people.
- Working directly with Innu communities: By translating, you are directly supporting Innu translators and contributing to the preservation of the Innu-aimun language.