Hashim Haji Mousa
Mother language is one of the important aspects of culture in every society. It is a way of life of a group of people–the behaviors, beliefs, values, and symbols that they accept, generally without thinking about them, and that are passed along by communication and imitation from one generation to the next.
Culture and Linguistic Clubs collaborated to organize a vibrant event on Mother Language Day at the American University of Iraq, Sulaymaniyah. The event attracted students from diverse ethnic groups and cultures, transforming the university into a microcosm of Iraq’s rich linguistic tapestry. Participants representing Kurds, Arabs, Yazidis, and Christians came together with great enthusiasm, seizing the opportunity to share their cultural heritage and mother tongues.
Rojin, a member of the Culture Club, and Payam from the Linguistic Club, took the lead in organizing this remarkable event. The gathering showcased a variety of languages, with attendees reciting poems and singing songs in Kurdish, Arabic, and English languages. A particularly memorable moment was when Rojin recited a poem by Sherko Bekas in Persian, while Payam recited the same poem in Kurdish. Dr. Choman, a pivotal figure in the event, served as a reader and translator, enriching the experience by reading one of Sherko Bekas’s poems and providing an English translation.
The event further blossomed with the contributions of Dastee and Fahad from the Music Club, who added a delightful touch with their captivating melodies on the Oud and heartfelt songs. Their performances elevated the atmosphere and provided an additional layer of enjoyment for the audience.
To gain insights into the participants’ perspectives, we conducted interviews with some of the students who attended the event. Shea Faraj, a Law student at AUIS, expressed her admiration, describing the event as beautifully organized and emphasizing its significance in reminding students of the importance of their mother languages and the role they play in preserving culture, poetry, and songs. Shea enthusiastically called for more events of this nature, as they provide an opportunity for students to celebrate their diverse cultures and have a wonderful time at AUIS.
Sirwan Saido, an Engineering student, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of such events in bringing students from different cultural backgrounds together to share their unique languages. He highlighted the positive impact of these gatherings in alleviating stress and anxiety, offering a respite from academic pressures. Sirwan emphasized that experiencing new languages and traditions, as well as forming new friendships, contributes to a more balanced mindset, allowing students to focus better and engage socially. By immersing themselves in activities they enjoy, students can divert their attention from stressors, fostering a more positive and fulfilling college experience.
In conclusion, the Mother Language Day event organized by the Culture and Linguistic Clubs showcased the power of language, music, and cultural exchange. It provided a platform for students to celebrate their linguistic diversity, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for each other’s traditions. The event not only enriched the participants’ personal lives but also contributed to a more inclusive and vibrant campus environment at AUIS.
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