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International Mother Language Day Act (S.C. 2023, c. 5)

Act current to 2024-05-28

International Mother Language Day Act

S.C. 2023, c. 5

Assented to 2023-04-27

An Act to establish International Mother Language Day

Preamble

Whereas English and French are Canada’s official languages;

Whereas more than 60 different Aboriginal languages are spoken in Canada;

Whereas Canadians speak a multitude of languages that greatly enrich Canada and its culture;

Whereas, in November 1999, International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization;

Whereas, in May 2007, the United Nations General Assembly called upon Member States “to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by peoples of the world”;

Whereas some Canadian provinces and cities already recognize International Mother Language Day;

And whereas the Parliament of Canada wishes to recognize the value of linguistic and cultural diversity;

Now, therefore, His Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Commons of Canada, enacts as follows:

Short Title

Marginal note:Short Title

 This Act may be cited as the International Mother Language Day Act.

International Mother Language Day

Marginal note:International Mother Language Day

 Throughout Canada, in each and every year, the 21st day of February is to be known as “International Mother Language Day”.

Marginal note:Not a legal holiday

 For greater certainty, International Mother Language Day is not a legal holiday or a non-juridical day.


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