Celebrate April 27 with La Diada de Santa Jordi and International Day of Multilingualism

April 27 is a special day that carries meaning and significance for many different cultures around the world. It is a day that celebrates both the Catalan tradition of La Diada de Santa Jordi, as well as the United Nations’ International Day of Multilingualism (Día Internacional de Multilingüismo). Let’s explore the origins and customs of these two celebrations, and discover how they promote the values of diversity, language, and love.n
nLa Diada de Santa Jordi, also known as Saint George’s Day, is a holiday that originated in Catalonia, Spain. It is a day of romance, book giving, and rose exchanging. According to legend, the courageous knight Saint George killed a ferocious dragon to save a princess, and as a result, a rose bush bloomed in the spot where the dragon’s blood was spilled. Since then, April 23 has been celebrated as a day of commemoration and love in Catalonia and other regions of Spain. On this day, couples exchange gifts of books and roses, representing the values of literacy and love.n
nOn the other side of the world, the United Nations celebrates April 27 as the International Day of Multilingualism. This holiday recognizes the importance of language diversity and encourages the promotion of all languages, including endangered ones. As a tribute to the many languages and cultures that make up our world, April 27 also marks the anniversary of the publication of the first World Report on Languages in 2010.n
nBoth La Diada de Santa Jordi and International Day of Multilingualism share the common beliefs in diversity and inclusivity. These celebrations encourage us to appreciate the differences that make us unique, and to foster understanding and respect for different cultures and languages. In a world where diversity is often challenged and threatened, these special days remind us of the importance of celebrating our differences and promoting unity and acceptance among all people.n
nApril 27 is also an opportunity to highlight the benefits of language learning and multilingualism. Being able to communicate in multiple languages not only improves cognitive skills and memory, but it also facilitates international communication and understanding. This is especially vital in our globalized world, where cross-cultural interactions are increasingly common.n
nThe hashtags #LaDiadadeSantaJordi and #InternationalDayofMultilingualism serve as powerful reminders of the values of love and diversity. You can also join in on the celebration by using these hashtags on social media and sharing your own traditions and experiences. Let’s celebrate April 27 by embracing and promoting the beauty of all languages and cultures around the world.

Educational institutions around the globe often hold events to mark both La Diada de Santa Jordi and International Day of Multilingualism, promoting intercultural learning and exchange.

On April 27, 2010, the International Day of Multilingualism was officially proclaimed by the United Nations’ Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

In many regions, exchanging books on La Diada de Santa Jordi signifies the obligation to give knowledge and learning to others.

Both La Diada de Santa Jordi and International Day of Multilingualism emphasize the importance of preserving endangered languages and promoting linguistic diversity.

While La Diada de Santa Jordi is primarily celebrated in Catalonia, which has its own unique language and culture, it has gained popularity in other parts of Spain and even around the world.

The symbolism of roses on La Diada de Santa Jordi is often associated with love, beauty, and appreciation for Catalan culture.

International Day of Multilingualism highlights how being multilingual can be a bridge between different people and open doors to various cultures and experiences.

Not only does La Diada de Santa Jordi celebrate language and love, but it also promotes the importance of reading and literacy.

The language of flowers is often used on La Diada de Santa Jordi, with different colors representing different meanings and emotions.

Multilingualism and cultural diversity have been recognized as key drivers of sustainable development by the United Nations, making April 27 an important day in promoting these values.

#LaDiadadeSantaJordi #InternationalDayofMultilingualism