The Commissioner for the Protection of the State Language, Taras Kremin, emphasizes the fundamental right of every nation to communicate in their native language within their own country on International Mother Language Day.
"Today, the world celebrates International Mother Language Day - a holiday that serves as a reminder of the fundamental right of every nation to communicate in their native language within their own state. For us Ukrainians, this right holds special significance, as we are once again forced to defend it with weapons in hand. When the enemy seeks to erase the very concept of Ukrainian identity, we steadfastly protect our right to be masters of our own land," stated the language ombudsman in his greeting.
He noted that the Ukrainian language has been targeted for destruction for centuries, including being banned and pushed aside.
"But we have preserved it - alive, melodic, and rich. We have maintained it despite repression and persecution. The Ukrainian language is our spiritual heritage and the key to our future. It is the language in which Shevchenko and Franko, Lesya Ukrainka and Marusya Churai created; the language that resonates in the songs of our ancestors and in prayers for our warriors. It is the driving force that unites Ukrainians and the entire world, leading us to the victory of Ukraine. As long as the Ukrainian language is spoken, Ukraine lives," Kremin added.
International Mother Language Day is celebrated annually on February 21, starting from the year 2000.