National Indigenous Languages Day

Smiling young woman from an Indigenous community, wearing traditional attire, surrounded by vibrant cultural symbols and nature.. — National indigenous languages day illustration

Welcome to National Indigenous Languages Day, a celebration of the rich and diverse languages spoken by Indigenous peoples around the world! On this special day, we honor the beauty, history, and significance of these languages. So grab your dictionaries and get ready to learn something new!

When is Indigenous Languages Day?

It's national indigenous languages day on the 31st March.

The Importance of National Indigenous Languages Day

Did you know that there are over 7,000 languages spoken worldwide, and many of them are at risk of disappearing? National Indigenous Languages Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving and promoting Indigenous languages.

Language is more than just a way to communicate; it is a vessel of culture, traditions, and identity. Indigenous languages carry within them centuries of knowledge, stories, and wisdom. They are a connection to the ancestors and a window into the rich heritage of Indigenous communities.

Unfortunately, due to various factors such as colonization, globalization, and cultural assimilation, many Indigenous languages are facing extinction. This is why National Indigenous Languages Day plays a vital role in promoting language revitalization efforts and creating a greater appreciation for these linguistic treasures.

Celebrating National Indigenous Languages Day

Wondering how you can join in on the celebration? Here are a few ideas:

Learn a few phrases: Take the time to learn a few words or phrases from an Indigenous language. It's not only a way to show respect, but it's also a fun and educational experience.
Support language initiatives: Explore organizations and initiatives that focus on language preservation and revitalization. Consider making a donation or volunteering your time to support their valuable work.
Attend cultural events: Check if there are any local events happening in your area to celebrate National Indigenous Languages Day. These events often feature performances, workshops, and storytelling sessions that showcase the beauty of Indigenous languages.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the United Nations has declared 2022 as the International Year of Indigenous Languages? This global initiative aims to promote and protect Indigenous languages around the world. So get ready for a year-long celebration of linguistic diversity!

History behind the term 'Indigenous Languages'

1994

Recognition of linguistic diversity

In 1994, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared International Mother Language Day. This day aimed to promote linguistic diversity and multilingual education. It highlighted the importance of preserving indigenous languages and the need for their recognition and support in culture and education.

2007

United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

The year 2007 marked a significant milestone with the adoption of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. This declaration recognized the rights of indigenous peoples, including their right to maintain, develop, and perpetuate their indigenous languages. It emphasized the importance of indigenous languages as part of their cultural heritage and identity, as well as their right to receive education in their own languages.

2019

International Year of Indigenous Languages

In 2019, the United Nations designated it as the International Year of Indigenous Languages to raise awareness about the endangered status of many indigenous languages worldwide. This initiative aimed to promote linguistic diversity, revitalization, preservation, and dissemination of indigenous languages. It sought to address the challenges faced by indigenous communities in preserving their languages and encouraged actions to ensure their continued existence for future generations.