12/02/2004

University marks International Mother Language Day

The University of Ulster is set to mark UNESCO International Mother Language Day this Saturday with a celebration of cultural diversity at Magee.

Along with various community groups from the area, the University has organised a series of events between 3pm-6pm.

The date has been designated by UNESCO as an international celebration of cultural diversity. Events will be held around the world to promote understanding, tolerance and dialogue between different nations.

The afternoon will begin with a number of talks and presentations highlighting the languages and cultures represented in Northern Ireland, and at the University.

Speakers from the Chinese, Sri Lankan, Greek and South American communities will share insights into the culture and language of their native countries. The minority languages of Irish and Ulster-Scots will also be represented.

From 5pm to 6.30pm the focus will move from language to performance and visitors will be treated to a selection of cultural activities from around the world.

Scottish dancers and pipers will share the stage with Japanese musicians while demonstrations and displays of Chinese calligraphy and Japanese origami will reveal some of the secrets of these ancient arts.

Admission to this event is free.

(MB)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

20 November 2024
Parents And Guardians Urged To Share Childcare Experiences
Parents and guardians across Northern Ireland are being encouraged to participate in a new survey to share their experiences of childcare. The survey, commissioned by the Department of Education, aims to gather valuable insights to inform future childcare policies.
17 February 2005
Cultural diversity to be celebrated at UU
An international celebration of cultural diversity will take place at the Magee campus of the University of Ulster this weekend to mark UNESCO’s International Mother Language Day. The event on Saturday will bring together Urdu and Basque speakers who will share insights into the culture and language of their native lands.
23 August 2024
BCC Consultation On Draft Irish Language Policy
Belfast City Council has announced a new public consultation on their new draft Irish language policy. The draft policy sets out how the council plans to promote Irish and use Irish across its services, including interpreting and translation, key documents and publications, signage at facilities, on the council website belfastcity.gov.
07 March 2022
New Strategy's For Irish And Ulster-Scots Languages
Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has announced the publication of the recommendations of the Expert Advisory Panels for an Irish Language Strategy and an Ulster-Scots Language, Heritage & Culture Strategy.
28 April 2017
DUP Accused Of 'Genuflecting To Irish Language Brigade'
Jim Allister has accused the DUP of "genuflecting to the Irish language brigade". The TUV leader made the comments in response to DUP leader Arlene Foster meeting with Irish language groups, which he said should "serve as a warning to all those who oppose the De-Britishisation of Northern Ireland".