University Students in Catalonia Rally to Defend Catalan Language in Classrooms

In a significant display of linguistic and cultural advocacy, university students in Catalonia have organized the first-ever "Correllengua Universitari" (University Language Relay) to emphasize the importance of defending and promoting the Catalan language in educational settings.

The Event

The Correllengua Universitari, held on a recent day in February, saw students from various universities across Catalonia come together to underscore the vital role of the Catalan language in their academic and daily lives. This event is an extension of the broader Correllengua movement, which has been a staple of Catalan cultural activism for years, but this is the first time it has been specifically tailored for university students.

Student Participation and Solidarity

Students from prominent universities such as the University of Barcelona, Pompeu Fabra University, and the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC) participated in the relay. The event involved a series of activities, including language workshops, cultural performances, and discussions on the importance of linguistic diversity in education.

Historical Context

The Catalan language has a rich history and has faced significant challenges, particularly during the Francoist regime when it was suppressed and relegated to private spaces[3]. However, since the transition to democracy, Catalonia has made significant strides in revitalizing its language. The 2009 Catalan Education Act mandated that Catalan be the primary language of instruction in public schools and escoles concertades (subsidized private schools)[2].

Current Challenges and Objectives

Despite these advancements, students and educators argue that there is still a need to reinforce the use of Catalan in higher education. The Correllengua Universitari aims to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining and promoting Catalan as a viable and essential part of academic life. Participants emphasized that using Catalan in classrooms is not just a matter of cultural preservation but also a way to ensure linguistic equality and diversity.

Community Support

The event received widespread support from the local community, with many residents and faculty members expressing their solidarity with the students. The city's strong educational infrastructure, which includes a network of public and private schools where Catalan is the primary language of instruction, provided a robust backdrop for this initiative[2].

Future Implications

The success of the Correllengua Universitari is seen as a positive step towards ensuring that the Catalan language remains a vibrant part of Catalonia's educational landscape. Organizers hope that this event will inspire further initiatives to promote linguistic diversity and cultural heritage within the region's universities.

In a time where linguistic and cultural identities are increasingly important, the Correllengua Universitari stands as a testament to the commitment of Catalan students and educators to their language and culture. This event marks a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to protect and celebrate the Catalan language in all aspects of life, including education.