What is Arabic Language Day?

Arabic Language Day, observed on December 18th, celebrates the Arabic language’s rich history and cultural significance. This day was established by UNESCO in 2010 to promote cultural diversity and multilingualism. Arabic, one of the six official languages of the United Nations, is spoken by over 400 million people worldwide. Arabic Language Day marks the day in 1973 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted Arabic as an official UN language. The day recognizes the contributions of the Arabic language to global culture, including science, philosophy, literature, and the arts.

History and Origin

Arabic has a history that spans over 1,500 years and is a key contributor to the fields of science, mathematics, philosophy, and art during the Golden Age of Islam. It has significantly influenced many other languages in the Islamic world, making it a critical language for understanding global heritage and culture. UNESCO’s establishment of Arabic Language Day aims to celebrate and promote the cultural richness and historical importance of the language.

Who Celebrates Arabic Language Day?

• Speakers of Arabic: Celebrating their linguistic heritage.
• Language and Cultural Organizations: Promoting awareness of the Arabic language and culture.
• Educational Institutions: Organizing events and activities to teach and celebrate Arabic.
• Linguists and Language Enthusiasts: Appreciating the linguistic complexity and history of Arabic.
• Global Institutions: Acknowledging the significance of Arabic as an international language.

Slogans and Themes

Arabic Language Day is celebrated with themes of linguistic diversity, cultural richness, and historical significance. Slogans like “Celebrating the Language of Civilization” and “Embracing Linguistic Diversity” highlight the importance of Arabic in world history and its role in fostering cultural understanding.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors:

• Traditional Arabic colors, including rich greens, blues, and gold, reflecting the art and architecture where Arabic has had a significant influence.

Symbols:

• Arabic Calligraphy: Symbolizing the beauty and artistic expression of the language.
• Books and Manuscripts: Representing the rich literary tradition of the Arabic-speaking world.
• Globe or World Map: Indicating the global spread and influence of the Arabic language.

Patterns:

• Geometric and Floral Patterns: Common in Arabic art and architecture.
• Images of Famous Arabic Scholars and Writers: Celebrating historical contributions to science, philosophy, and literature.

Most Used Hashtags

• #ArabicLanguageDay
• #CelebrateArabic
• #LanguageDiversity
• #December18
• #UNESCO

How to Celebrate

• Language Learning: Engage in learning Arabic, whether through classes, apps, or language exchange.
• Cultural Events: Attend or organize events showcasing Arabic literature, music, art, and food.
• Academic Seminars: Participate in or host discussions and lectures on the impact of the Arabic language in various fields.
• Artistic Displays: Enjoy or create Arabic calligraphy and art.
• Social Media Engagement: Share content related to the Arabic language and its cultural impact.

Arabic Language Day serves as a reminder of the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity in our interconnected world. It’s a day to appreciate the rich contributions of the Arabic language to global heritage.