4 June 2010
The United Nations marks the birthday of Aleksandr Pushkin, recognized as the father of Russian literature, by celebrating Russian Language Day, 6 June, 2010. On the occasion of International Mother Language Day on 21 February, initiated by UNESCO, the Department of Public Information launched of “Language Days at the United Nations”, to celebrate multilingualism and cultural diversity.
Under the initiative, United Nations duty stations around the world celebrate six “Language Days” dedicated to the six United Nations official languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish. Language Days at the United Nations strive to entertain as well as inform, by raising awareness of the history, culture and achievements of each of the six official languages among the United Nations community.The dates for the Language Days were selected by the Department of Public Information for their symbolic or historic significance in connection with each language:
-
8 December, Arabic Language Day, the date on which the United Nations General Assembly designated Arabic as the sixth official language of the United Nations in 1973;
-
23 April, English Language Day, on William Shakespeare’s birthday;
-
20 March, French Language Day, on International Day of Francophonie;
-
12 October, Spanish Language Day, on traditionally observed in Spanish speaking countries as Dia de la Hispanidad; and
- 20 April, Chinese Language Day, on Day of Grain according to Chinese lunar calendar.
Each of the six official languages are celebrated by the United Nations on its designated day in new and creative ways, including with unique information materials and cultural events showcasing each language through music, art, poetry, food, theatre and film screenings.
Permanent link: http://en.unesco.kz/un-russian-language-day-6-june-2010