Question
What is the origin of International Mother Language Day?
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International Mother Language Day originated from the recognition of the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. It was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in November 1999, and the first celebration took place on February 21, 2000.
The choice of February 21 commemorates the historic events in Bangladesh (then East Pakistan) in 1952, when students and activists were killed while protesting for the recognition of their mother language, Bangla. This event highlighted the struggles many communities face in preserving their languages and cultures. By establishing International Mother Language Day, UNESCO aimed to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by peoples of the world and to encourage multilingual education.
Since then, International Mother Language Day has been observed annually, promoting linguistic diversity and an appreciation for multilingualism across various cultures and societies worldwide.
The choice of February 21 commemorates the historic events in Bangladesh (then East Pakistan) in 1952, when students and activists were killed while protesting for the recognition of their mother language, Bangla. This event highlighted the struggles many communities face in preserving their languages and cultures. By establishing International Mother Language Day, UNESCO aimed to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by peoples of the world and to encourage multilingual education.
Since then, International Mother Language Day has been observed annually, promoting linguistic diversity and an appreciation for multilingualism across various cultures and societies worldwide.
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