On February 21, the world celebrates International Mother Language Day. For this special occasion, Member of Parliament Xiomara Maduro attended a lecture by Mr. Mirto Laclé at the National Library titled: “Let’s Create a Stir on Mother Language Day.” It was a beautiful event where our mother tongue, Papiamento, was celebrated through song, poetry, music, and literature.
The large audience in attendance was delighted by classic songs performed by artist Ronny Kock, Grupo Rondalla Universo, and Academia Musical Harpa y Cuarta under the direction of maestro Edgard Kelkboom. Those present were moved by the poems recited by poets Aurelia Croes and Marilis Becker, as well as by the beautiful posthumous tribute to Frank Croes (RIP) for his musical contributions.
During the evening, author Desiree Correa presented her book titled “Toi, toi, toi,” a compilation of theatrical works in Papiamento. Notary Ralph Yarzagaray also provided further explanation about the book “El Papiamento, la gramática más sencilla,” written by Dr. Rodolfo Lenz in 1926, which represents the first scientific research on Papiamento. This book, which is celebrating its centenary and is considered of great value, was re-edited by Notary Ralph Yarzagaray in 2009 and includes an introduction by Drs. Mirto Laclé.
Member of Parliament Xiomara Maduro expressed her gratitude to Mirto Laclé and his wife for a beautiful event where Papiamento lived in the minds and hearts of all those present. “Papiamento is my language, and wherever it is, I want to be there as well,” are the words with which Member of Parliament Xiomara Maduro extends an invitation to the people of Aruba to appreciate, value, and speak our mother tongue, Papiamento.