SIL

SIL International (formerly known as the Summer Institute of Linguistics) is a U.S.-based, worldwide, Christian non-profit organization, whose main purpose is to study, develop and document languages, especially those that are lesser-known, in order to expand linguistic knowledge, promote literacy, translate the Christian Bible into local languages, and aid minority language development.

History

SIL International was founded in 1934 by William Cameron Townsend, a missionary from the United States. Townsend had worked with the Cakchiquel people in Guatemala, where he developed a system for writing the Cakchiquel language and translated the New Testament.

Work

SIL International has been involved in language development work in over 100 countries. It has helped to develop writing systems for over 1,500 languages and has contributed to the linguistic study and documentation of languages around the world.

Criticism

SIL International has faced criticism for its religious orientation and its focus on translating the Bible. Some critics argue that the organization's work can disrupt local cultures and languages.

See also

• Linguistics
• Language documentation
• Bible translation
• Minority language

External links

• Official website

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