UN Chinese Language Day

United Nation’s Chinese Language Day is celebrated on April 20th each year to promote multilingualism and cultural diversity as well as to highlight the significance of the Chinese language and culture. This day is one of the six UN Language Days established by the United Nations to celebrate the six official languages of the organization.

Purpose for Chinese Language Day is celebrated to Promote multilingualism and cultural diversity, Raise awareness about the history, culture, and development of the Chinese language, Encourage the use of Chinese as one of the UN’s official languages.

Significance of the Date: The date was chosen to pay tribute to Cangjie, a mythical figure as assumed to invent Chinese characters about 5,000 years ago. According to legend, Cangjie had four eyes and when he invented Chinese characters, the deities and ghosts cried and the heavens rained millet.

Activities and Events:
Cultural Exhibitions: Showcasing Chinese art, calligraphy, and traditional crafts.
Language Workshops: Offering classes and tutorials on Chinese language and characters.
Lectures and Seminars: Discussions on the significance and influence of the Chinese language in the world.
Performances: Traditional Chinese music, dance, and theater.
Culinary Events: Tasting and learning about Chinese cuisine.

UN Language Days: Apart from Chinese Language Day, the UN celebrates:
Arabic Language Day: December 18th
French Language Day: March 20th
English Language Day: April 23rd
Russian Language Day: June 6th
Spanish Language Day: October 12th

Promotion of Chinese Language:
Encourage to learn and use of Chinese Language around the world.
To Support initiatives for teaching Chinese Mandarin Language in schools and universities.
To highlight the role of Chinese in international communication and diplomacy.

Cultural and Linguistic Importance
Cultural Heritage: Emphasizes the rich cultural heritage of China and Taiwan including the literature, philosophy, and arts.
Global Influence: Recognizes the growing global influence of China and Taiwan, the importance of Chinese Mandarin as a world language.
Educational Opportunities: Highlights the educational opportunities for learning Chinese and understanding the culture.
UN Chinese Language Day is an opportunity to appreciate the beauty and significance of the Chinese language, promote linguistic diversity, and foster cross-cultural understanding.