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February 21st, 2016

NDP Statement on International Mother Language Day

NDP Statement by Official Languages critic François Choquette on International Mother Language Day:

“This year’s theme for International Mother Language Day is ‘Quality education, language(s) of instruction and learning outcomes’. It emphasizes the importance of mother language for quality education and linguistic diversity and is in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

Canada is enriched by the diversity of languages spoken here – our two official languages, over 60 First Nations languages, and those of newcomers to our country. Unfortunately, of those more than 60 Indigenous languages, only a handful remain strong and viable. Language is the mainstay of our cultural identity and heritage. It is our means of passing on knowledge, expressions, traditions and history and must be promoted and protected.

The NDP has always supported initiatives that advance the equality and status of both official languages and remains committed to preserving and protecting Indigenous languages. We will press the government to implement the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.