International Mother Language
International Mother Language Day is celebrated every year on 21st February. The day was declared by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1999 to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. It is a day to celebrate the diversity of languages spoken around the world and to promote mutual understanding and respect for all mother tongues.
The idea for International Mother Language Day was first proposed by Bangladesh in 1997. Bangladesh was a part of Pakistan and the people of Bangladesh were fighting for their language rights. During the fight, many people lost their lives in demonstrations which came to be known as the Shaeed Dibas (Martyr’s Day). International Mother Language Day is intended to commemorate these brave individuals who sacrificed their lives for the cause of linguistic rights.
The day seeks to promote awareness of the many languages spoken around the world and to promote the preservation of all languages, particularly those that are endangered. It is also a day to promote peace and understanding among different cultures and to celebrate the richness of different languages. It is a day to celebrate the power of language to bring people together and to bridge divides.
International Mother Language Day is celebrated in many countries, with activities such as language festivals, language classes, poetry readings, films, and debates. In some countries, students gather in schools and universities to read books in their mother language. There are also websites and social media pages devoted to the celebration of International Mother Language Day.
The celebration of International Mother Language Day is an important reminder that language is much more than just a means of communication; it is the foundation of culture, identity, and diversity. The day reminds us of the importance of preserving and celebrating the many languages of the world and the unique cultures and identities they represent.
