Finding their voice
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Protecting mother languages
For the first time, the languages of Mongolian, Daur, Ewenki and Oroqen were spoken at the same symposium.
When scholars of these ethnic groups read papers in their own languages at the Hulunbuir University, Inner Mongolia, members of the same ethnic group in the audience warmly applauded each speaker.
Held on June 17 and 18, the symposium commemorated the 11th UNESCO International Mother Language Day, which aims to promote "sustainable development of civilizations; protecting mother languages in the global age".
"The mother language, in which the first words are uttered and individual thought expressed, is the foundation for the history and culture of each individual," said Irina Bokova, director-general of UNESCO, in a message on the occasion of International Mother Language Day.
"The concept of mother language complements that of multilingualism, which UNESCO strives to promote, by encouraging the acquisition of at least three levels of language proficiency: a mother language, a national language and a language of communication."
China has organized annual activities related to International Mother Language Day since 2006, but this year is the first time that the event took place in a minority populated area.
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