More than 100 people gathered in Bradford on February 16 to honor International Mother Language Day, in an event that highlighted the richness of linguistic and cultural diversity within the community.
Organized by BEAP, the celebration took place at Prestige Hall and featured a vibrant programme led by the BEAP Cultural Group. The event brought together people of all backgrounds through poetry recitals by young participants, traditional songs performed by community elders, and cultural dances that reflected the city’s diverse heritage.
Attendees had the opportunity to learn about languages and traditions from around the world, including Bengali, Urdu, Polish, and Arabic. Special guest MP Imran Hussain praised the initiative, emphasizing the significance of language in shaping identity. “Language is at the heart of who we are, and events like this showcase the incredible diversity of Bradford,” he said.
Lukman Miah, BEAP’s community partnership manager, expressed his pride in the turnout, saying, “It was amazing to see so many communities come together to celebrate their languages and heritage.”
Ali Abed echoed the sentiment, highlighting the connection between language and culture. “Today was a beautiful example of how we can embrace our differences while celebrating what unites us.”
Naz Khan reflected on the impact of the performances and the sense of unity in the room, calling it “a powerful demonstration of how cultural events can bring people together.”
Dr. Shaukat Ahmed reinforced the importance of preserving linguistic heritage, noting, “Language is more than just words; it carries history, emotion, and identity.”
Special recognition was given to the BEAP community partnership team and volunteers who helped create a warm and inclusive atmosphere for the event.
As Bradford prepares to celebrate its role as the UK City of Culture 2025, BEAP remains committed to championing cultural diversity and fostering unity through its initiatives.
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