Spanish Language Day

Spanish Language Day History

Spanish Language Day, also known as El Día del Español, is dedicated to celebrating and promoting the Spanish language in all of its richness and diversity. The day allows for a deeper understanding of Hispanic culture, history, and influence around the globe. This global observance not only fosters respect for both the diversity of languages and cultures, but also seeks to encourage multilingualism and intercultural understanding, aiming to share the beauty of the Spanish language and its notable contribution to global literature, art, and civilization.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) established Spanish Language Day in 2010 as part of its resolution to celebrate linguistic and cultural diversity. This initiative resonates with South Africans given the nation's own rich tapestry of languages - boasting 11 official languages. An increasing number of South Africans are studying Spanish, acknowledging both its global relevance and the potential opportunities it offers for travel, work and cultural exchange. As part of the BRICS alliance, South Africa recognises the value of strengthening ties with Spanish-speaking countries.

In South Africa, Spanish Language Day activities include exhibitions, film showings, lectures, and language workshops hosted by educational institutions and cultural centres. These events often highlight the nuances of Spanish language, its idiomatic expressions, and its literary and cinematic works. They endeavour to spark appreciation and interest in the language, while contributing to the linguistic diversity that hallmark South African society. Spanish Language Day is observed annually on 23 April, a date that coincides with the day in 1616 when both Miguel de Cervantes, the esteemed Spanish writer, and William Shakespeare, the renowned English playwright, passed away.

Facts about Spanish Language Day

• According to Rosetta Stone, Spanish is the second most spoken language around the world with over 500 million speakers.
• One of the most well-known and important works of the Spanish language is Miguel de Cervantes’ El ingenioso hidalgo don Quijote de la Mancha (The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha).
• The main languages In South Africa include Zulu, Xhosa, and Afrikaans. Although it is not widely spoken, the Spanish language does have a presence in South Africa through the cultural activities presented by the Spanish Embassy and Cervantes Institute.
• Spanish became more known within South Africa due to migration. Some Spanish people moved to South Africa during the Spanish Civil War and the Franco dictatorship. During the apartheid period, relationships between South Africa and Spain were minimal. After the democratic transition in South Africa, bilateral relations were established in 1993.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for Spanish Language Day

Top things to do in South Africa for Spanish Language Day

• Watch the UN's webinar celebrating Spanish Language Day. The webinar focuses on raising awareness about gender-inclusive Spanish.
• Learn Spanish, enjoy Spanish food and culture, or read Spanish works of literature.
• Attend Spanish Film Festival: Film festivals are occasionally organized, where cinemas showcase Spanish movies. This is an entertaining way to pick up on the language.
• Read a book to help you learn Spanish:
  1) Practice Makes Perfect: Complete Spanish Grammar - by Gilda Nissenberg
  2) Easy Spanish Step-By-Step - by Barbara Bregstein