Echoes of Mother Tongues—Celebrating Linguistic Diversity and Multiculturalism
The Association for Bangladeshi Students & Scholars (ABSS) at Washington State University is a non-political, non-profit registered student organization that serves Bangladeshi students, scholars, and alumni at WSU. Since its establishment, ABSS has played a vital role in fostering connection among WSU’s multiethnic and multicultural communities. Its commitment to cultural engagement and student leadership has been recognized through several prestigious honors, including the WSU chancellor’s award for leadership 2025, GPSA RSO Excellence Award (2022–2023), the President’s LEAD Award (2016), and the GPSA RSO Excellence Award (Fall 2015).
Echoes of Mother Tongues is centered on the annual observance of International Mother Language Day (IMLD), a globally recognized event commemorating the sacrifice of civilians during the 1952 Language Movement in Bangladesh (then East Pakistan). Proclaimed by UNESCO in 1999 and formally recognized by the United Nations in 2002, International Mother Language Day is observed worldwide to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by peoples of the world. The day underscores the importance of linguistic diversity in strengthening inclusive education, fostering intercultural cooperation, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting sustainable development.
Through this project, ABSS at WSU aims to create an inclusive platform that celebrates linguistic diversity and multiculturalism. The event promotes intercultural understanding through cultural performances representing diverse languages, nations, and traditions. It also serves as an educational opportunity by conveying the historical significance of the 1952 Language Movement and its lasting global impact.
Project Goals and Impact
❖ Promotion of Linguistic Heritage and Cultural Inclusion
- Advance the preservation of linguistic diversity and equity in education.
- Create opportunities for international students and multicultural communities to share and celebrate their mother tongues.
- Foster cross-cultural understanding through performances representing diverse languages, cultures, and nations.
❖ Community Engagement
- Engage students, scholars, families, and members of the wider community.
- Strengthen relationships between international students and local communities.
- Support local vendors by featuring authentic Bangladeshi cuisine.
$5
Miniature Shaheed Minar
Your donation will help ABSS to build a miniature Shaheed Minar. Thank you so much for your support.
$10
Pizza for performers!
Throughout the month, our performers work hard for their soulful performance. Help ABSS to provide pizza for performers.
$15
Next Generation Patron
Your contribution helps provide free admission for children, ensuring that young attendees can experience and celebrate linguistic diversity, culture, and community alongside their families.
$25
Friend of ABSS
Your $25 contribution helps cover essential event needs such as materials, decorations, and community outreach efforts.
$50
Support ABSS
Your $50 donation is a direct boost to our ABSS community. It enables us to secure valuable resources, and equipment to enhance the event experience.
$100
Cultural Advocate
Your $100 contribution directly supports performances, cultural displays, and resources that highlight linguistic diversity and multiculturalism.
