**Georgia Commemorates Mother Tongue Day Amid Anti-Government Protests**
Today, April 14th, marks a significant day in Georgian history as the country celebrates its mother tongue day. This occasion commemorates a pivotal moment in 1978 when mass public resistance forced Soviet authorities to abandon efforts to strip the Georgian language of its state language status.
**A Rare Victory Against Soviet Repression**
On this day 47 years ago, thousands of students, scholars, and ordinary citizens gathered in the streets of Tbilisi to protest a proposed constitutional amendment that would have downgraded the Georgian language. Despite the risk of violent dispersal, the demonstrators stood firm, and the Soviet leadership ultimately withdrew the proposal – a rare retreat in the face of public pressure during the Soviet era.
**A Landmark Moment of Cultural Defiance**
The event is widely remembered as a landmark moment of cultural defiance and national unity. Many Georgians view the protest as an early and inspiring act of resistance against Soviet occupation and against the broader policy of Russification, which sought to suppress minority languages and cultures across the USSR.
**Diplomatic Support for Georgian Language**
As the country celebrates this milestone, diplomats from various countries have expressed their support for the preservation of the Georgian language. The UK Ambassador to Georgia, Gareth Ward, tweeted: “On April 14, 1978, a protest rally of thousands of people was held in Tbilisi to defend the state status of the Georgian language. After widespread public pressure, the Soviet government backed down. Happy Georgian Language Day! Long live the unique Georgian language.”
**Protests Against Government U-Turn**
This year’s observance falls on the 138th consecutive day of anti-regime protests against the Georgian Dream U-turn on EU integration and against repression. A large student-led rally is planned for the evening, with participants marching from Tbilisi State University to the parliament to honor those who stood against Soviet repression nearly five decades ago.
**A Celebration of Cultural Heritage**
The EU Delegation Georgia noted: “On 14 April 1978, the courage and determination of students helped preserve the unique Georgian language – the heart of Georgia’s identity, culture, and education. Today, the EU stands with you in celebrating this pivotal moment in safeguarding your linguistic heritage.”
**U.S. Embassy Tbilisi Congratulates**
The U.S. Embassy Tbilisi also congratulated Georgians on their Day of the Georgian Language: “47 years ago, Georgians bravely defended their language against the Soviet Union’s attempt to strip it of its status as the state language. Today, we join you in celebrating a cultural treasure that generations have cherished and protected.”
**A Celebration Amid Tumultuous Times**
As Georgia celebrates this significant day, protests against the government continue. The country remains embroiled in a tumultuous situation, with citizens demanding change. Despite these challenges, today’s festivities offer a beacon of hope for the preservation of Georgian culture and language.
Read More @ civil.ge