Global (Commonwealth Union) – Every year on February 21st, people around the world come together to celebrate International Mother Language Day. This observance, declared by UNESCO in 1999, honors linguistic diversity and promotes the preservation and protection of all languages, especially minority and indigenous languages.
The significance of February 21st dates back to 1952 in Bangladesh, then East Pakistan, where students and activists protested against the imposition of Urdu as the sole official language by the ruling government. The movement, known as the Language Movement or Bhasha Andolon, culminated in a tragic event where several demonstrators were killed by the police in Dhaka, the capital of East Pakistan.
This day of remembrance and resistance sparked a global movement for linguistic rights and cultural preservation. Recognizing the importance of language in identity and expression, UNESCO proclaimed February 21st as International Mother Language Day to honor those who sacrificed their lives for the right to speak their mother tongue.
International Mother Language Day celebrates the rich tapestry of languages spoken around the world, highlighting their importance in promoting cultural heritage, social integration, and sustainable development. With over 7,000 languages spoken globally, each one represents a unique way of understanding and interacting with the world.
Linguistic diversity not only enriches our cultural landscape but also plays a crucial role in sustainable development, promoting inclusivity, and fostering dialogue. It is through language that knowledge is transmitted, traditions are preserved, and innovations are shared.
Despite the immense diversity of languages, many are at risk of extinction. Factors such as globalization, urbanization, and cultural assimilation have led to the decline of numerous indigenous and minority languages. International Mother Language Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to preserve and revitalize endangered languages.
Efforts to preserve endangered languages range from documentation and digitization initiatives to community-based language revitalization programs. By supporting speakers of endangered languages in preserving and passing down their linguistic heritage to future generations, we ensure the survival of unique cultural identities and knowledge systems.
Education plays a crucial role in promoting multilingualism and linguistic diversity. Incorporating students’ mother tongues into the curriculum not only enhances learning outcomes but also fosters a sense of belonging and pride in one’s cultural heritage. Multilingual education empowers individuals to engage fully in society, preserving linguistic diversity while promoting social cohesion.
