Celebrating Diversity this International Mother Language Day

 

Every day has something to celebrate if you look for it. And if you prefer not to search, the internet offers various observances for almost every day of the year. I am particularly drawn to fun observances that honor our differences and promote unity and love. When I discovered that February 21 is International Mother Language Day, I wanted to learn more about it. This day was established by UNESCO in 1999 to promote linguistic diversity, multilingualism, and cultural heritage. It pays tribute to the languages that are integral to our identities, cultures, and traditions.

While this day may seem more relevant to those who speak multiple languages or have a strong cultural connection to their mother language, it still holds value for native English speakers who may not know any other languages. It serves as an opportunity to learn about the importance of language in shaping cultures and identities. Additionally, it helps raise awareness of the challenges faced by speakers of minority languages and encourages support for language preservation efforts.

Unfortunately, as I reflect on this issue, I can't help but notice how many people from my country have avoided passing on their mother tongues. I once met someone who specifically instructed not to speak to her children in Luganda. As a result, these teenagers, who have grown up in Uganda, cannot speak any of their ethnic languages. In contrast, I've also encountered a family living in the diaspora that requires anyone who enters their home to use Luganda as the language of communication. The Baganda people are known for their politeness and adherence to formalities when addressing elders. During a recent visit to this family, the head of the household corrected me when I answered his call by simply saying "yes" instead of "yes, sir." I accepted his feedback gracefully, and I appreciate his dedication to preserving his culture as it is passed on to his children. If we do not have more individuals like him, our languages face the risk of disappearing. Over time, as fewer people become fluent speakers, the loss of these languages would mean a significant loss of cultural heritage and the erosion of our identities.

The relationship between language and perception is complex, and research suggests that languages can influence how we perceive the world. Even if you don't speak another language, this day presents an opportunity to reflect on how your language shapes your worldview, cultural heritage, and sense of belonging. We can support language preservation by learning a minority language, speaking our mother tongue, teaching children their ethnic language, or supporting language documentation projects. At the beginning of this year, I embarked on a journey to refamiliarize myself with French. I often find myself wishing I had delved deeper into language studies during my school years. If only someone had taken the time to inspire me with a passionate pep talk about the countless benefits of mastering other languages! The excitement of connecting with diverse cultures and opening doors to new opportunities could have sparked my interest. However, the silver lining is that it's never too late to embark on this journey of learning. Each new word learned is a step toward a richer, more colorful world awaiting exploration.

I believe that there is strength in diversity, and our mother tongue can be a significant asset in shaping our identities and mental faculties. This International Mother Language Day, I hope we can come together to recognize the vital role that languages play in shaping our lives and communities. By celebrating our linguistic heritage, we not only honor our personal histories but also foster a deeper understanding and respect for one another. Let us embrace our unique languages as tools of connection that enrich our shared experiences and empower us to build a more inclusive and harmonious world.