Mr. Speaker, International Mother Language Day, on February 21, is recognized by the United Nations and is celebrated by cultures and countries around the world.
In 1952, students in Dhaka, Bangladesh, demonstrated for the recognition of Bangla as an official language of then East Pakistan. Several protesting students were arrested, and others were shot dead by police, including Abdus Salam, Rafiq Uddin Ahmed, Abul Barkat, and Abdul Jabbar.
On February 21, we remember these students and their tragic sacrifice, and we are reminded of the lasting impact that peaceful protest can have.
More, on February 21, we remember the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity, and our continued commitment to multiculturalism.
Dhonnobad.