International Mother Language Day is celebrated every year on February 21st to promote and preserve linguistic and cultural diversity around the world. This day was proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1999 to recognize the importance of mother tongues in preserving cultural heritage.
When is the international mother language day ?
International Mother Language Day is observe annually on February 21st.
History of International Mother Language Day
The origin of this day dates back to February 21, 1952, in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. On that day, students protested against the decision of the government of Pakistan to impose Urdu as the sole national language. The protest turned violent, and police opened fire on the students, resulting in the death of many people. The event is now known as the “Language Movement Martyrs Day” or “Shohid Dibosh” in Bangladesh. In 1999, UNESCO declared February 21st as International Mother Language Day to commemorate the event.
Significance of International Mother Language Day
International Mother Language Day celebrates linguistic and cultural diversity, promoting the importance of preserving and protecting mother languages. It recognizes that mother tongues play a vital role in cultural heritage and social cohesion, and the loss of a language can lead to the disappearance of unique cultural expressions and ways of life. This day aims to promote linguistic diversity and multilingual education, with the goal of fostering greater tolerance and understanding between people from different linguistic backgrounds.
Theme of International Mother Language Day
Each year, UNESCO selects a theme for International Mother Language Day. The theme for 2023 is “Fostering multilingualism for inclusion in education and society.” This theme highlights the importance of multilingualism and its role in promoting inclusion, and encourages policymakers, educators, and communities to embrace linguistic diversity in all aspects of life.
In conclusion, International Mother Language Day is a significant day that recognizes the importance of preserving and promoting linguistic and cultural diversity. It is a reminder that every language is unique and valuable, and that its preservation is essential for maintaining cultural heritage and social cohesion. Let us celebrate this day by embracing linguistic diversity and promoting multilingualism in education and society.