[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 31 (Thursday, February 18, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E138]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY 2021

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                            HON. GRACE MENG

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 18, 2021

  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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