On February 22, 2025, VBCS solemnly commemorated International Mother Language Day, paying tribute to the brave souls who sacrificed their lives in the 1952 Language Movement of Bangladesh. With deep respect, we gathered to present our honor to the martyrs by placing flowers at the Shahid Minar, a symbolic gesture of remembrance and gratitude.

The afternoon was a heartfelt celebration of language and culture, featuring a vibrant array of performances that reflected our rich heritage. Patriotic songs, graceful dances, and powerful recitations resonated through the venue, reminding us of the strength and unity embedded in our mother tongues. A special highlight of the evening was a mesmerizing sitar performance by Mr. James Hamilton, whose artistry beautifully bridged cultures and enriched our program.

We were privileged to host distinguished guests, including the Honorable Minister of Forests, BC, Mr. Ravi Parmar, Nina Krieger, MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake, Mr. Jason Jones, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the District of Saanich, Mr. Gurpardeep Singh Marwa and Anantdeep Singh Dhillon from the Punjabi Community and representatives from various community groups. Their presence underscored the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity in our society.

The celebration reached a historic milestone when Mr. Ravi Parmar officially presented the BC government’s proclamation recognizing February 21 as International Mother Language Day. Bearing the Great Seal of British Columbia, this proclamation was a profound acknowledgment of our shared commitment to preserving linguistic heritage.

As we concluded the evening, we reflected on the sacrifices of the past and the responsibilities of the future. Language is more than a means of communication – it is the heart of our identity, a bridge between generations, and a source of unity in our diverse community. With renewed dedication, we move forward, celebrating and safeguarding the beauty of our mother tongues for years to come.