Spanish Language Day

Spanish Language Day History

Spanish Language Day serves to celebrate multilingualism and cultural diversity across the globe, and honours one of the six official languages of the United Nations. The Observance emphasises linguistic rights, a cornerstone to cultural identity, and promotes equal use of all six official languages within the UN system. This day highlights the contributions and influence of the Spanish language and its culture, promoting greater understanding and cooperation among nations using Spanish as their communicative tool.

Spanish Language Day was instituted by the United Nations in 2010 as part of a series of measures to support and promote the effective use of each official language. For the substantial population of Spanish speakers residing in Australia, this presentation of their native heritage maintains interpersonal connections and fosters mutual respect among diverse communities. Australia, being an ethnically diverse nation, sees abundant potential in endorsing Spanish Language Day, which contributes to a harmonious multicultural society and equips Australians with knowledge beneficial on both personal and global scales.

In Australia, Spanish Language Day is often celebrated with a range of cultural and educational activities. Universities, language centres, and Spanish embassies host events like language workshops, poetry recitations, film screenings, and culinary festivals that explore the intricacies of Spanish-speaking cultures. Spanish Language Day, observed on 23 April, provides an excellent platform for Australians to enrich their understanding of the global community, promoting international cooperation and cultural appreciation in today's interconnected world.

Facts about Spanish Language Day

• According to Rosetta Stone, Spanish is the second most spoken language around the world with over 500 million speakers.
• One of the most well-known and important works of the Spanish language is Miguel de Cervantes’ El ingenioso hidalgo don Quijote de la Mancha (The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha).
• Spanish is also a prominent language in Australian academia, with numerous universities offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Spanish language and literature, as well as Latin American studies.
• According to the 2016 Australian Census, the vast majority of Spanish speakers in the country are either immigrants or have Latin American roots, with significant populations from Chile, Argentina, Colombia, and Spain.

In the News and Trending in Australia for Spanish Language Day

Top things to do in Australia for Spanish Language Day

• Watch the UN's webinar celebrating Spanish Language Day. The webinar focuses on raising awareness about gender-inclusive Spanish.
• Learn Spanish, enjoy Spanish food and culture, or read Spanish works of literature.
• Visit Spanish Museums and Cultural Centres: For instance, the Museo del Prado exhibition in the National Gallery of Victoria offers Spanish art history experiences.
• Read a book to learn more about the different Languages in Australia:
  The Cambridge Handbook of Multilingualism - by Peter Auer and Li Wei: This book provides a comprehensive overview of multilingualism, which is a significant issue in Australia given the many languages spoken there.