The Significance of 21st February: International Mother Language Day

Every year, on February 21st, the world comes together to celebrate a day that promotes the preservation and protection of all languages. This global observance, known as International Mother Language Day (IMLD), was proclaimed by UNESCO in 1999 to raise awareness about the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity.

The Origins of International Mother Language Day

The choice of February 21st as the date for this observance has historical roots. On this day in 1952, a tragic event occurred in Bangladesh, then known as East Pakistan. The students and protesters in Dhaka were demanding the right to speak their native language, Bengali, in the face of oppressive policies by the ruling government that sought to impose Urdu as the sole national language. The peaceful protest turned violent, resulting in the deaths of several students. This event became a symbol of the fight for linguistic and cultural rights, and it continues to inspire the global movement for language preservation.

The Importance of Linguistic Diversity

Languages are not only a means of communication but also a vital part of cultural identity. They carry history, traditions, and unique ways of thinking. However, many languages around the world are endangered, with one language disappearing every two weeks. As a result, it’s crucial to raise awareness about the importance of preserving languages and promoting linguistic diversity.

International Mother Language Day serves as a reminder that language is essential for social cohesion, human rights, and cultural expression. It encourages governments, institutions, and communities to promote multilingualism, teach minority languages, and ensure that people can use their native languages freely and without fear of discrimination.

Celebrating International Mother Language Day

Each year, International Mother Language Day is marked with various events, seminars, and workshops. These activities often involve language experts, cultural leaders, and community members coming together to share knowledge about the importance of preserving languages. Many schools also participate in the celebrations, teaching children about different languages, cultures, and the significance of multilingualism in their daily lives.

This day is not only about raising awareness but also about actively supporting policies that encourage the use and teaching of mother languages, ensuring that future generations can pass on their linguistic heritage.

ILLUSTRATION: BIPLOB CHAKROBORTY