Measure notes observance’s importance to Bangladesh.
By The American Bazaar Staff
NEW YORK: U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) has introduced a measure in Congress that aims to promote the observance in the United States of the International Mother Language Day.
International Mother Language Day was established in 1999 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to increase awareness of linguistic diversity and multilingualism.
Although it is celebrated across the globe, its occurrence holds special significance to Bangladesh and those of Bangladeshi descent.
February 21, the day when it is celebrated, was the day in 1952 when students in Dhaka were killed by police while demonstrating for recognition of Bengali as the national language of Pakistan. Dhaka, now the Capital of Bangladesh, was then controlled by Pakistan.
The day is a national holiday in Bangladesh and is referred to there as the Language Movement Day.
Meng’s measure, a Congressional resolution, encourages the House of Representatives to support the goals and ideals of International Mother Language Day. It also encourages the people of the United States to observe it with appropriate ceremonies, programs and activities.
“This resolution is an outstanding way to bring attention to International Mother Language Day and to make Americans aware of its importance to the people of Bangladesh,” said Meng. “Thanks to Bangladesh, countries around the world celebrate this great occasion, and I look forward to more people in the U.S. and across the globe learning about the importance of preserving our linguistic heritage. I encourage House leaders to hold a vote on my resolution soon.”
Meng’s measure is expected to be referred to the House Foreign Affairs Committee, the panel with jurisdiction over the matter.
To contact the author, email to editor@americanbazaaronline.com