International Mother Language Day

Today is International Mother Language Day.  It was first announced in 1999 by UNESCO and it has been observed across the globe since 2000. 

The goal is to support multilingualism and the use of mother tongues which allows one to better understand one's own identity.  It also gives one a greater appreciation for cultural diversity.

I've had to adapt to British English since moving here to Euroland.  So in honour of International Mother Language Day, here's a 5,5 minute video I found on YouTube that illustrates the American accents in each of the 50 states.

©Condé Nast Traveler