Introduction : Our community is a wonderful place where we connect, learn, and share our passions. Our written discussion forums are a privileged meeting place for many of us.
I believe that, along with other catdets, we can make our community even more inclusive and dynamic by creating voice channels dedicated to regional languages.
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The Positive Impact of Multilingualism in Communities: Research-Backed Reality
Numerous scientific reports demonstrate that the practice of multiple regional languages within a community can have beneficial effects on both individuals and the overall structure of the organization.
Research-supported key points highlight several advantages:
1. Cognitive Enrichment and Language Skills:
The practice of multiple languages enhances individuals’ cognitive abilities. Bilingual or multilingual individuals tend to exhibit greater cognitive flexibility, better selective attention, and improved problem-solving skills. These abilities can benefit the community by fostering a more adaptable and innovative population.
2. Open-mindedness and Tolerance:
Multilingual individuals are often more open-minded and tolerant of other cultures. They are better able to understand and appreciate diversity, promoting social cohesion by building bridges between different linguistic groups within the community. Thus, it is up to these individuals to ensure that the integration of monolinguals (non-English speakers) is not ultimately a constraint.
3. Valorization of Heritage and Identities:
The practice of regional languages contributes to the preservation and promotion of the cultural and identity heritage of each member by strengthening the sense of belonging, which is essential for social cohesion and diversity within the community.
4. Social and Cultural Benefits:
Linguistic diversity can strengthen social cohesion and intercultural understanding within a community. The ability to communicate in multiple languages can reduce language barriers, fostering richer social interactions and better cooperation between different cultural groups.
5. Impact on Community Organization:
An organization that values and integrates linguistic diversity is often perceived as more inclusive and equitable. This can strengthen legitimacy and community participation, making organizational structures more effective and resilient in the face of challenges.
6. Economic Development:
The presence of multiple languages in a community can be an asset by facilitating international exchanges. This can translate into increased economic opportunities and greater attractiveness for investors and new talent.
→ Scientific research converges towards the same conclusion: these sources* show that the practice of multiple regional languages within a community is a richness that brings numerous benefits at both the individual and collective levels, from cognition to the economy, including social and cultural cohesion.
*(at the bottom)
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Why regional language voice channels?
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Deeper connections: Humor, idioms, and cultural nuances can be difficult to translate. By chatting in our native tongues, we can forge stronger, more personal bonds.
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Greater inclusivity: Not all of our members are native English speakers. Providing spaces where they can express themselves freely in their own language will make them feel more welcome and involved.
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Richer cultural experiences: Each regional language carries a unique history, culture, and traditions. By celebrating them, we enrich our community and encourage mutual discovery.
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Complements existing channels: Regional language voice channels won’t replace English channels but will complement them. They’ll offer new opportunities for interaction and allow everyone to find their place.
Which languages could be included?
chinese, russian, japanese, indonesian, turkish, persian, vietnamese, french, spanish, italian, portuguese, indian, german, korean, filipino, arabic,
And more in the future if communities are created.
How would it work?
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Dedicated voice channels: Each regional language would have its own voice channel.
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Common rules: Our community’s general rules would apply to these new channels.
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Mutual respect: It’s essential to treat everyone with respect and create a friendly atmosphere in all channels.
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Poll: Consider running a poll to gauge interest from the community and identify the most requested languages.
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Volunteers: Seek volunteers to help moderate and grow the new channels.
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Regular communication: Once the channels are up and running, keep members engaged through regular announcements and reminders.
→ The creation of these voice channels would greatly benefit our community. It would strengthen our sense of belonging, while allowing us to explore new aspects of the cultural diversity that defines us.
Please share your thoughts and suggestions about this proposal.
thanks for reading!
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Representative Studies sources:
Adesope et al. (2010): This meta-analysis demonstrates the cognitive advantages of bilingualism and multilingualism, such as greater cognitive flexibility and increased attention.https://www.albany.edu/~mm924921/Adesope%20et%20al.pdf
Grosjean (2010): In his book “Bilingual: Life and Reality,” Grosjean explores the multiple advantages of bilingualism, including social and cognitive benefits.
Fishman (1991): “Reversing Language Shift: Theoretical and Empirical Foundations of Assistance to Threatened Languages” discusses the importance of preserving minority languages and the benefits for communities. https://www.jstor.org/stable/4168498?item_view=read_online
International Organizations sources:
Council of Europe: The Council of Europe has published numerous reports on multilingualism and its importance for social cohesion. Plurilingualism and pluriculturalism - Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)
UNESCO: UNESCO supports linguistic and cultural diversity and regularly publishes studies on the subject. https://www.unesco.org/en/legal-affairs/recommendation-concerning-promotion-and-use-multilingualism-and-universal-access-cyberspace?hub=747