International Mother Language Day

International Mother Language Day is observed annually on 21 February to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and to encourage multilingual education worldwide. The day commemorates the Bengali Language Movement in Bangladesh, where students and activists fought for the recognition of their mother tongue, Bengali, in 1952.

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History and Origin

• The observance of 21 February as a special day originates from the Bengali Language Movement in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
• On 21 February 1952, police in Dhaka opened fire on students protesting for the recognition of Bengali as one of the state languages of Pakistan. Several students were killed, including Rafiq Uddin Ahmed, Abdus Salam, Salam, and Shafiur Rahman.
• The movement ultimately succeeded when Bengali was recognized as one of the state languages of Pakistan in 1956.

UNESCO Recognition

• In 1999, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared 21 February as International Mother Language Day, promoting awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity worldwide.
• UNESCO aims to preserve and protect all languages, especially those at risk of extinction.

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Purpose and Significance

International Mother Language Day highlights:

1. Cultural Preservation: Encouraging communities to protect and promote their native languages.
2. Education: Advocating for mother tongue-based education, which improves learning outcomes and literacy.
3. Diversity and Inclusion: Fostering respect for linguistic diversity and multiculturalism.
4. Peace and Understanding: Promoting dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among different linguistic groups.

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Observances Worldwide

• Bangladesh: Marks 21 February as Ekushey February, with ceremonies at Shaheed Minar monuments honoring language martyrs.
• India: Celebrated in Bengali-speaking regions and educational institutions.
• Global: UNESCO encourages governments, schools, and organizations worldwide to host events promoting mother languages, translation, literature, and cultural activities.

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Legacy

• The day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made to preserve linguistic identity.
• It emphasizes the importance of mother languages in education, communication, and cultural heritage.
• The observance strengthens global awareness of language diversity and the need to protect endangered languages.

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See Also

• Bengali Language Movement
• Bangladesh Liberation War
• Shaheed Minar
• Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
• UNESCO