MP Aldag Statement on S-214: International Mother Language Day

March 24, 2022 – British Columbia

MP Aldag jointly seconded Bill S-214, An Act to establish International Mother Language Day, stating:

“I am very familiar with the contents of Bill S-214. I supported a similar bill during my time in the 42nd Parliament. Senator Jaffer and MP Hardie brought this bill forward in the 43rd Parliament, and now they are trying again. I believe that this Bill will pass this time. International Mother Languages Day promotes the use of one’s mother language, which Canadians take for granted.

“A constituent in my riding, Abdus Salem, immigrated from Bangladesh where his family was discriminated against for not speaking the official language. Surrey and BC already adopted this Day — Canada would be a global leader and uphold our multiculturalism if we adopt this.

I believe that all parties can support International Mother Language Day. It is representative of our openness and multiculturalism, it already exists at other levels of government, and we have a history of protecting minority groups to uphold.”

Contacts:

Megan Waddington
Constituency Assistant
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
604-575-6595
john.aldag@parl.gc.ca