21/02/2026
At Cultúr Migrants Centre, we were proud to commemorate International Mother Language Day with a vibrant and diverse community representing several nationalities and every continent of the world except one. It was a beautiful reminder that while our journeys may differ, our voices connect us.
The 2026 global theme for International Mother Language Day, as highlighted by the United Nations, focuses on advancing multilingualism and safeguarding linguistic diversity as a foundation for inclusion and sustainable development. This deeply aligns with our own theme at Cultúr Migrants Centre: “Keeping Our Voices Alive.”
For us, keeping our voices alive is not only about language, it is about identity, belonging, memory, culture and dignity.
One of the most powerful moments of the day was our Multilingual Wall of Voices. Participants wrote personal messages in their mother tongues, words of hope, memories of home, reflections on migration, and expressions of gratitude.
It was both moving and inspiring as several participants bravely stepped forward to read and explain what they had written. Some spoke about their journeys. Others reflected on how much they missed home. Yet, despite the emotion in the room, there was a shared joy, the joy of being able to express themselves freely in the language closest to their hearts.
In that moment, languages became bridges and not barriers.
In solidarity with the global movement for linguistic inclusion, we held a Call to Action by reading the UN Sustainable Development Goals pledge in various languages. It was a powerful demonstration of unity in diversity.
A special moment was hearing the pledge read in Irish by Eddie Fennessy, reaffirming the importance of preserving indigenous and heritage languages.
Councillor Yemi Adenuga, our CEO, Tinu Achioya, and many participants also shared greetings in their native languages, filling the room with warmth, pride, and connection.
Reflecting on the significance of the day, the CEO, shared that, “Language is more than communication, it is identity, memory, and belonging. When we create spaces where people can speak freely in their mother tongues, we affirm their dignity and humanity. At Cultúr Migrant Centre, we are committed to keeping our voices alive, because every language carries a story that deserves to be heard.”
The celebration concluded with networking conversations, laughter, and a sumptuous meal shared among friends old and new, a fitting end to a day rooted in culture, unity, and shared humanity.
As we reflect on International Mother Language Day 2026, we are reminded that linguistic diversity strengthens communities, fosters inclusion, and supports sustainable development. At Cultúr Migrant Centre, we will continue to champion spaces where every voice matters and every language is valued.
Together, we will keep our voices alive.
