Every year on April 23rd, the world marks UN English Language Day. This day isn't just about celebrating the works of William Shakespeare, whose birthday and death anniversary traditionally fall on this date. It's a day designated by the United Nations Department of Global Communications to promote multilingualism and cultural diversity. UN English Language Day is a reminder of the power of language to connect us across cultures and borders.
The UN mentions, “English Language Day at the United Nations is celebrated on the 23rd of April — the date traditionally observed as both the birthday and date of death of William Shakespeare. As well as being the English language's most famous playwright, Shakespeare had a significant impact on modern-day English. Shakespeare's creativity with language meant he contributed hundreds of new words and phrases: 'gossip'; 'fashionable' and 'lonely' were all first used by Shakespeare. He also invented phrases like 'break the ice', 'faint-hearted' and 'love is blind'.”
Language connects us, transcending borders and cultures. Let's embrace linguistic diversity and use the power of words to inspire, educate, and uplift others. Happy English Language Day from #ArtOfGiving
— Art of Giving (@artofgiving_net) April 23, 2024
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.#AOG #EnglishLanguageDay #LanguageConnects pic.twitter.com/Pa80poMzvl
What is the History of UN English Language Day?
UN English Language Day was established in 2010 by the UN's Department of Global Communications (DGC). As part of a larger initiative, the DGC established language days for each of the UN's six official languages. The first UN Language Day was celebrated on that same year, 2010.
The UN states: “English Language Day is the result of a 2010 initiative by the UN's Department of Global Communications, establishing language days for each of the Organization's six official languages. The purpose of the UN's language days is to celebrate multilingualism and cultural diversity, and to promote equal use of all six official languages throughout the Organization.”
What is the Significance of UN English Language Day?
These are the main reasons why UN English Language Day is significant:
- Celebration of Multilingualism and Cultural Diversity: The UN observes English Language Day along with days dedicated to its five other official languages. This highlights the importance of multilingualism, which allows for better communication and understanding between different cultures around the world.
- Promotion of English Language: English has become a global language of communication, used in diplomacy, business, and education. UN English Language Day serves to promote the use and understanding of English, but within the context of multilingualism.
What is the Meaning of English as a Global Language and Official language?
English as a Global Language:
- Widest Taught Language: English is the most commonly taught foreign language in many countries. According to Anderson Institute, “138 countries include English as part of their core curriculum. Meanwhile, 40 other countries offer it as an optional course.”
- Communication Tool: It's used in various contexts like international business, diplomacy, science, and tourism.
- Multiple Varieties: Due to its global reach, English has spawned various regional dialects and accents, sometimes called "New Englishes."
English as an Official Language:
- Sole Official Language: In some countries like Canada, English is the only official language.
- One of Several: Many countries have English as an official language alongside their native tongue(s), for instance, India or Singapore.
- International Organisations: English is an official language of many international organisations like the United Nations and the European Union. The Anderson Institute states: “With over 1.35 million speakers, English is most widely used for international communication and other official work worldwide.”
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