24 February 2017 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C celebrated multiculturalism together with 12 other diplomatic missions on International Mother Language Day at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh on February 21.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) first declared February 21 as the International Mother Language Day in 1999. It was formally recognized by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2008.
The celebration has then become a worldwide annual observance to promote awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity, and multilingualism.
“Languages are the mode of expression of human creativity in all its diversity. Once the languages and modes of expressions are lost, they become impossible to recover. Multilingualism is the most accurate reflection of polity, of culturalism. The loss of one will immediately lead to the loss of the other,” said Bangladesh Ambassador to the United States Mohammad Ziauddin in his welcome remarks.
“The representatives of so many countries willing to contribute in today’s program is extremely encouraging. It reflects the growing awareness, pride, and commitment of all peoples to protect and project their languages and culture through various modes of expression,” Ambassador Ziauddin concluded.
Various presentations ranging from dances, songs, and poetry were showcased by participating countries during the cultural show.
MusicStation, a Filipino community band, performed a rendition of “Awitin Mo at Isasayaw Ko,” an original Filipino disco song by VST & Co. The vocalist also belted his own version of a Stevie Wonder classic, “Overjoyed,” to the delight of the audience.
“The Philippine Embassy is delighted to be a part of this important celebration. Filipinos stand in solidarity with the peoples of the world in the preservation and enrichment of our mother tongues, and in promoting cultural diversity and tolerance,” said Minister Patrick A. Chuasoto, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Philippine Embassy.
UNESCO’s theme for this year’s celebration, “Towards Sustainable Futures through Multilingual Education” emphasizes access to education in one’s mother tongue and in other languages in order to foster sustainable development. END
