Official multilingualism
Okay, so imagine you have a friend who speaks a different language than you do. If you want to communicate with them, you have to learn a little bit of their language or they have to learn a little bit of yours.
Now, imagine this on a bigger scale. Countries have different languages, and sometimes people who live in the same country speak different languages. So, in some places, the government has decided to make it official that the country or area is "multilingual", which means that more than one language is accepted and used in official ways.
This means that the government will make sure that people who speak different languages can still understand what’s going on. For example, official documents or signs might be written in multiple languages so people can read and understand them. Schools might offer classes in multiple languages so everyone can learn and communicate.
Being multilingual means that different cultures and ways of living are respected and celebrated. People get to keep their own language and also learn about other languages and cultures. It can be a lot of work to make sure everyone can communicate, but it’s worth it to make sure everyone has a voice and can be a part of their community.
Now, imagine this on a bigger scale. Countries have different languages, and sometimes people who live in the same country speak different languages. So, in some places, the government has decided to make it official that the country or area is "multilingual", which means that more than one language is accepted and used in official ways.
This means that the government will make sure that people who speak different languages can still understand what’s going on. For example, official documents or signs might be written in multiple languages so people can read and understand them. Schools might offer classes in multiple languages so everyone can learn and communicate.
Being multilingual means that different cultures and ways of living are respected and celebrated. People get to keep their own language and also learn about other languages and cultures. It can be a lot of work to make sure everyone can communicate, but it’s worth it to make sure everyone has a voice and can be a part of their community.