International Mother Language Day on February 21 is a chance to salute Newham’s language diversity. With 104 different languages spoken by residents, the Borough has much to celebrate.

This special day was launched by the United National Cultural agency UNESCO in 1999 and aims to create awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity, and promote multilingualism.

Language focuses on emotion and feelings, communication, and can demonstrate aspirations. Around the world, there are 7117 different languages spoken, but just 23 of them are spoken by more than half the world’s population.

When speakers of English say “Hello”, people in the Arab world say “Salam”. And the speakers of Bangla say; “Valo”. In every land and region, UNESCO hopes that International Mother Language Day will lead to more respect for the dignity of each language.

My mother’s pleasant words.

Encircle in my ears

The sweet impression of all children.

The world is brimming with luminosity.

For more information go to https://en.unesco.org

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