Thursday, 20th August 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 21st February 2026, 9:06 AM
In observance of International Mother Language Day and the Eternal 21st February – Shaheed Day, US Ambassador Brent Christensen extended warm greetings to the people of Bangladesh through a video message delivered in Bengali.
The ambassador’s message was shared on the official Facebook page of the US Embassy in Dhaka. In the video, Ambassador Christensen expressed profound respect for the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement and emphasised his admiration for Bangladesh’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage. He stated, “On this solemn day of 21st February, we honour those who sacrificed their lives for the preservation of our language. Language forms the cornerstone of our cultural identity and historical legacy.”
He further remarked, “The day reminds us to speak in our mother tongue and to remember our history. On behalf of the United States, we reaffirm our solidarity with the people of Bangladesh. The Language Movement teaches us that a nation can unite through its language and strengthen its cultural values.”
Ambassador Christensen’s message underscored the significance of Bangladesh’s language and culture while highlighting International Mother Language Day as a global symbol for the preservation of linguistic and cultural diversity. His tribute reinforces the day’s dual purpose: commemorating past sacrifices and celebrating the ongoing relevance of mother tongues worldwide.
A brief overview of the 2026 International Mother Language Day celebrations is presented below:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of the Day | International Mother Language Day / Eternal 21st February |
| Theme | Preservation of Language and Cultural Diversity |
| Year | 2026 |
| Celebrating Countries | Bangladesh and other countries around the world |
| Key Events | Tributes to martyrs, linguistic and cultural programmes |
| Ambassador’s Message | Video greeting from US Ambassador Brent Christensen in Bengali |
| Core Message of the Greeting | Language as cultural identity, respect for martyrs, international solidarity |
The ambassador’s address has offered the people of Bangladesh a renewed appreciation of their mother tongue and its enduring cultural significance. The message resonated particularly with students, journalists, and those engaged in the fields of language and cultural studies, inspiring reflection on the role of language in shaping national identity.
In Bangladesh, 21 February is annually observed with solemn ceremonies to pay homage to the martyrs and celebrate linguistic heritage. Participation by foreign diplomats and international organisations highlights the global recognition of the day’s cultural importance. By delivering his greeting in Bengali, Ambassador Christensen made his message more immediate and heartfelt, symbolising the strong friendship and cultural solidarity between Bangladesh and the United States.
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