Edmonton, February 23, 2019: International Heritage and Language Association of Edmonton have celebrated the International Mother Language Day on February 23rd (morning) at the prestigious Italian Cultural Center of Edmonton in a multicultural atmosphere. The day observed on February 21 around the world. It’s a day to celebrate the linguistic and cultural diversity.
Honorable Minister for Education Mr. David Eggen was present as the Chief Guest while his worship Don Iveson Mayor of Edmonton, Ms. Sadia Khan of Alberta Association for Multicultural Education and Mr. Delwar Jahid, Editor of Diverse Edmonton were present as the special guest. Dr. Josephine Pillard IHLA member emeritus, Ms. Reneta krawczyk was guest of honor. The function was chaired by Dr. Antonella Cortese, President of International Heritage and Language Association.
Minister David Eggen in his speech highly appreciated the initiative of IHLA for conveying the message of the international mother language day to the Albertans. He also announced Pilipino language as the officially recognized language of the province. Minister promises that it is just opening of the opportunity for other language speakers.
Don Iveson Mayor of Edmonton read out the Proclamation of International Mother Language Day recognition by the city of Edmonton and handed it over to the International Heritage and Language Association.
Ms. Sadia khan highlighted on the significance of the day in line with the language movement and independence of Bangladesh.
Mr. Delwar jahid with his keynote speech emphasized the spirit of language movement, the liberation war of Bangladesh and requested all for upholding the spirit of 21st February. In his speech, Mr. Jahid referred the biopic of Prime minister Sheikh Hasina and her quotes on the role of Canadian initiatives of International Mother Language Day celebration that made the day of international significance since 1999.
A cultural program was also presented by the artists from the member schools displaying the high cultural-diversity of Edmonton.
Also, members from Bangladesh Canada Heritage Society of Edmonton and Bangladesh Canada Association of Edmonton were present there.
