February 21 is a significant day for linguists and language enthusiasts around the world as it marks the International Mother Language Day. The day aims to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism across the globe. The idea behind the day is to raise awareness about the importance of preserving languages, and to acknowledge and celebrate the role of mother tongues in the development of individuals and communities.
Origins of International Mother Language Day
The International Mother Language Day was first announced by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) General Conference in November 1999, in recognition of the Bangladesh Language Movement. On February 21, 1952, students and activists in East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh) took to the streets to demand the recognition of Bangla as one of the official languages of Pakistan. The peaceful protest was met with violence, and several protesters were killed. The incident came to be known as the Language Movement, and it ultimately led to the recognition of Bangla as an official language of Pakistan in 1956. The day is commemorated in Bangladesh as Language Martyrs’ Day.
The International Mother Language Day was formally recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 2002. Since then, the day is celebrated every year on February 21, with events and activities organized by governments, educational institutions, cultural organizations, and individuals.
The importance of mother languages
The importance of mother languages cannot be overstated. A language is not just a means of communication; it is also a reflection of the cultural, historical, and social context in which it has evolved. Mother languages are an essential part of individual and collective identities, and they play a crucial role in shaping the way people think, feel, and interact with the world around them.
However, despite the significance of other tongues, many languages around the world are under threat of extinction. According to UNESCO, a language becomes extinct every two weeks, resulting in the loss of an entire cultural and intellectual heritage. This is due to various factors such as globalization, urbanization, migration, and the dominance of a few dominant languages. Furthermore, around 40 percent of the global population do not have access to education in a language they speak or understand. This hinders their ability to learn and develop, and perpetuates linguistic and cultural inequalities.
The theme for 2023
The theme for the International Mother Language Day 2023 is “Multilingual education a necessity to transform education”. The theme highlights the need to promote multilingualism in education and make education accessible to all, regardless of their mother tongue or language proficiency. Multilingual education has several benefits, such as promoting cognitive development, enhancing academic performance, and fostering social and cultural integration. It also helps preserve linguistic and cultural diversity and promotes mutual understanding and respect among communities.