Bangladeshi-Americans of AC Observe “Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day 2024"

By Subrata Chowdhury 

At 10 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 20, Bangladeshi-American leaders and members of the Bangladeshi community gathered at the Bangladesh Community Center, located on 2709 Fairmount Avenue, for a celebration of ethnic heritage. A round of discussion was held on the importance and significance of the Day. The event was presided over by Bangladesh Association of South Jersey (BASJ) president Zahirul Islam Babul and conducted by Zakirul Islam Khoka, secretary of BASJ. Also discussed was International Mother Language Day.

Celebrated on February 21, International Mother Language Day was declared in 1999 by the 30th General Assembly of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to recognize and promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism.  

In his speech, Babul mentioned that the International Mother Language Day plays a unique role in spreading the message of amity and harmony by showing respect to the languages and cultures of all the countries of the world.

Other speakers highlighted the contribution of the language martyrs to the evolution of Bengali nationalism and the advancement of values of human rights, freedom and inclusion. The speakers urged everyone to come forward to protect the language and culture of all ethnic groups, including the development of their own mother tongue and culture embracing the spirit of the International Mother Language Day.

At 12.01 am on Wednesday Feb. 21, leaders and members of the Bangladeshi community paid tribute to the language martyrs by placing wreaths. Various social, cultural, and political organizations and a large number of expatriate Bangladeshis also paid their respects with flowers. 

The speakers included Abdur Rafiq, Shahriar Ahmed, Abu Taher, Masud Chowdhury, Rahman Babul, Sakawat Hosen, Shofiqul Islam, Saiful Islam Salim, Sirajul Hoque, Mamunul Hoque Mamun, Abu Nasor, Moniruzaman Monir, Kanak Routh, Pintu Roy, Sayed Shahid, Tolon Hoque, Abu Taher Bhuyian, Syed Ehsan, Abdul Halim khan, Giasuddin Pathan, Belal Hosen, Abdur Rahim, Farouque Talukdar, Rowshan Uddin, Imrul Hossain. Music was performed at the event by Masum Baul.

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