International Mother Language Day 2021

Floor Speech

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Ms. MENG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the cultural and historical significance of International Mother Language Day. Established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1999, International Mother Language Day raises awareness of linguistic diversity and multilingualism. Every year since I have been a Member of Congress, I have introduced legislation to recognize the significance of International Mother Language Day.

International Mother Language Day is celebrated around the world on February 21st and holds special importance for the Bangladeshi American community. On February 21, 1952 Bangladeshi students died while demonstrating for recognition of Bengali as a national language of Pakistan. International Mother Language Day is an important day to commemorate those who have fought for the right for their language to be recognized.

Madam Speaker, the United States has a diverse and rich linguistic and cultural heritage. The Census Bureau reports there are over 300 spoken languages in the United States, 169 of these are native languages. According to UNESCO, 145 languages in the United States are classified as ``endangered.''

Preserving existing languages is an essential component of preserving our rich and diverse heritage.

Madam Speaker, I believe we must continue to promote linguistic diversity and linguistic education in our country. We cannot allow the 145 endangered languages in our nation to become extinct. I urge all my colleagues to support this legislation.

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