International Mother Language Day

International Mother Language Day is observed annually on February 21st. It is a worldwide observance that promotes linguistic and cultural diversity and seeks to highlight the importance of preserving and promoting mother languages. The day was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1999 to honor the Bengali language movement in Bangladesh, where on February 21, 1952, students demonstrating for recognition of their language, Bengali, as one of the two national languages of the then Pakistan, were shot and killed by police.

The significance of International Mother Language Day extends beyond commemorating the events in Bangladesh. It serves as a reminder of the importance of linguistic diversity and the preservation of mother tongues. Languages are not just a means of communication; they are also repositories of cultural heritage, knowledge, and identity. Unfortunately, many languages around the world are endangered or facing extinction due to various factors such as globalization, urbanization, and cultural assimilation.

Through activities and events organized on International Mother Language Day, UNESCO and other organizations aim to promote linguistic and cultural diversity, encourage multilingualism, and raise awareness about the importance of preserving endangered languages. These efforts help foster understanding, tolerance, and dialogue among different linguistic and cultural communities worldwide.