First announced by UNESCO on 17 November 1999,[1] it was formally recognized by the United Nations General Assembly with the adoption of UN resolution 56/262[2] in 2002.

Abdus Salam, Abul Barkat, Rafiq Uddin Ahmed, Abdul Jabbar and Shafiur Rahman died, with hundreds of others injured.

They visit the Shaheed Minar, a monument built in memory of the martyrs and its replicas to express their deep sorrow, respect and gratitude to them.

All moves to promote the dissemination of mother tongues will serve not only to encourage linguistic diversity and multilingual education but also to develop fuller awareness of linguistic and cultural traditions throughout the world and to inspire solidarity based on understanding, tolerance and dialogue.Rafiqul Islam's proposal was introduced in the Bangladesh parliament and in due course (at the behest of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina) a formal proposal was submitted to UNESCO by the Government of Bangladesh.

"[13] UNESCO chooses a theme for each International Mother Language Day, and sponsors related events at its Paris headquarters.

[29] Bangladeshis celebrate International Mother Language Day by placing flowers at the Martyrs' Monument and its replicas.

[32] Bangladeshis organize social gatherings honoring their language and culture, hold literary competitions, draw alpana on the roads, eat festive meals and listen to songs.

[34] International Mother Language Day was introduced to the Parliament of Canada for recognition by Matthew Kellway on 5 February 2014 as a private member's bill, C-573, however it was never debated and failed to become law.

[35][36] In 2015, British Columbia and Manitoba issued proclamations observing International Mother Language Day on 21 February.

Members of the community come here to mark International Mother Language Day by laying wreaths and singing revolutionary songs.

Community members come from across North England to mark International Mother Language Day at the monument.