History was made on February 24/2024 with the very first celebration of Punjabi Language Day in the city of Brandon, Manitoba, Canada.
Brandon is the 2nd largest city in the province of Manitoba. One of its Guiding Principles is Diversity: Respect, Honour and raising awareness of ethnocultural diversity, through celebratory and educational opportunities. That makes Brandon a cultural center for the southwest region of Manitoba.
The members of the Punjabi Community approached city Mayor Jeff Fawcett's office to proclaim Punjabi Language Day in the City of Brandon. The presentation was successful and the mayor signed the Proclamation that February 24, 2024, to be Punjabi Language Day in the city of Brandon.
(left to right) Ramanjit Kaur Claire, Ramjit Singh Mann, Mayor Jeff fawcett, Tajinderpal Kaur Brar, Baljit Singh.
It was an exciting day for members of the Punjabi speaking community as they were celebrating their mother language first time in their lives. The social get-together included children and adults and took place at the newly established Sikh Centre of Brandon. As it was our very first celebration of this type the entire programme was kept very informal and friendly.
Most attendants took part saying few words in praise of the event. Like any Punjabi celebration, the function ended with serving sweet refreshments (ladoos and gulab jamuns) and tea which everyone enjoyed.
My humble suggestion to Punjabi speaking communities living in Canada, USA, Australia, UK, India, Pakistan and other countries is to start having Punjabi Language Day in their towns and cities. This will create a big boost to our mother language (Punjabi).
