International Mother Language Day, February 21

Next Monday is International Mother Language Day. This date has been celebrated by UNESCO every year since 2000. It celebrates the importance of mother language (or Native language) as part of cultural heritage.

"The mother language, in which the first words are uttered and individual thought expressed, is the foundation for the history and culture of each individual. ... Languages are the best vehicles of mutual understanding and tolerance. Respect for all languages is a key factor for ensuring peaceful coexistence, without exclusion, of societies and all of their members."
--Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO

For 2011 Mother Language Day focuses on the theme of information and communication technologies for the safeguarding and promotion of languages and linguistic diversity.