Community Informed Translation as Best Practice

In recent years, the importance of accurate representation of nonbinary identities has grown as the portrayals of more diverse representations of LGBTQ+ characters have increased in media. This case study examines the Spanish and French translations of nonbinary pronouns in the recent reboot of the sitcom One Day at a Time, focusing on the challenges and failures in translating these pronouns accurately and respectfully.

Introduction

One of the core values of Queer communities is the right to self-identification and the respect for chosen identities, particularly through the pronouns individuals use. Nonbinary individuals often use pronouns that do not conform to the traditional binary options of "he" or "she." In English, "they" is commonly used as a singular nonbinary pronoun, alongside others like "ze" and "hir." The sitcom One Day at a Time, which features a nonbinary character named Syd, addresses gender diversity directly. However, some of the translations of this show into Spanish and French reveal significant issues in conveying nonbinary pronouns accurately.

Background of One Day at a Time

One Day at a Time is a sitcom that tackles various social issues, including gender diversity. Syd, a recurring nonbinary character, is introduced in a context that normalizes their nonbinary identity and pronouns. In the English version, Syd's pronouns are consistently respected, which is essential for the show's narrative and for representing nonbinary identities accurately. Currently there are six translations available into either Spanish or French (see the full research article for specifics). Some of these were examples in respect, but others left viewers in the dark. In short, the treatment of Syd's pronouns was inconsistent.

The Issue: Calque Translations

Calque translations, where expressions are directly translated from one language to another without considering cultural or linguistic differences, are a common problem in translating nonbinary pronouns. This approach was evident in the Latin American Spanish and French dubbed versions of One Day at a Time. These versions often failed to capture the nonbinary references, leading to misrepresentation of Syd's identity.

In the Latin American Spanish version, translators used calque translations that did not accurately reflect the nonbinary pronouns. For example, the use of "ellos" (plural masculine they) in a way that did not convey the nonbinary context properly. Similarly, the French dubbed version struggled with translating "they" into a suitable nonbinary pronoun, often defaulting to binary pronouns and thus erasing Syd's identity.

Community-Informed Translations

In contrast to the calque translations, the Spain Spanish and French subtitled versions demonstrated a more engaged approach. These translations showed evidence of active consultation with Queer communities, resulting in a more accurate representation of nonbinary pronouns. The Spanish subtitles used innovative strategies like gender-neutral language and neo-pronouns that better captured Syd's identity. Similarly, the French subtitles employed strategies that reflected authentic Queer language practices, ensuring that Syd's pronouns were respected and accurately translated.

This approach aligns with the concept of community-informed translation, where translators collaborate with the communities they are representing. This method not only enhances the accuracy of translations but also respects the self-determination of Queer individuals.

Implications of Translation Strategies

The differences in translation strategies have significant implications for the reception of One Day at a Time in different linguistic and cultural contexts. Calque translations can perpetuate misunderstandings and reinforce binary gender norms, while community-informed translations promote inclusivity and respect for nonbinary identities. The inconsistent translations of Syd's pronouns in One Day at a Time underscore the need for translators to engage more deeply with Queer communities and to develop strategies that accurately reflect nonbinary identities.

Conclusion: Community-Informed Translation as Best Practice

The case study of One Day at a Time highlights the importance of community-informed translation as a best practice for Queer-oriented texts. Accurate representation of nonbinary identities in translation requires a nuanced understanding of Queer linguistic practices and a commitment to respecting individuals' chosen pronouns. Translators must move beyond calque translations and engage with Queer communities to ensure that nonbinary identities, and other aspects of Queer culture, are accurately and respectfully represented across linguistic lines.

In conclusion, the translation of nonbinary pronouns in One Day at a Time into Spanish and French reveals both the challenges and the potential solutions for translating Queer identities. By adopting community-informed translation practices, translators can better respect and represent nonbinary individuals, fostering greater inclusivity and understanding in global media.

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Adapted from: Attig, Remy (2023). “A Call for Community-Informed Translation: Respecting Queer Self-Determination across Linguistic Lines” – Translation and Interpreting Studies – Vol. 18, No. 1, 70-90. DOI 10.1075/tis.21001.att