On 21 February each year, UNESCO International Mother Language Day celebrates language diversity and highlights the social and cultural importance of language preservation and mother tongue education worldwide.

In response to a request from the the South Australian Bangladeshi Community Association (SABCA), Council has developed a concept for a Mother Language Monument at Apex Park, West Beach to acknowledge International Mother Language Day and mother language speakers in our community.

We are now seeking your feedback on the concept. Consultation closes Monday 28 October 2024.

Monument concept

The concept for the monument draws on:

  • Exploration of the origins of International Mother Language Day through existing monuments and recent UNESCO promotional campaigns, and
  • Ideas of speech, culture, connection, family, and protection.

The concept aligns with the City of West Torrens Public Art Plan Key Theme 1: Heritage of People and Place. While preliminary, the concept incorporates multiple opportunities for interpretative content, including:

  • Etched concrete or pavers featuring the words 'peace', 'mother', 'mother tongue' or similar in many languages.
  • Interpretative plaque/s.
  • Interpretative content integrated with seating and other physical components forming the context for the monument.

Initial high level cost estimates for detailed design and construction of the monument and associated landscaping, furniture, and signage are in the order of $100,000 (excluding GST). Council has resolved to liaise with Commonwealth and State Governments and SABCA regarding contribution of funds toward the cost of the monument.


Monument location

Apex Park Reserve at West Beach (pictured below) currently has no permanent public art, but contains expansive lawn areas that could accommodate the monument in a context appropriate to its reflective and commemorative purpose.

Other advantages to locating the monument at Apex Park include visibility from the road, and access to car parking, public transport, and other existing community facilities at the park.

The area highlighted in yellow below shows the general area of Apex Park in which location of the monument is being considered.