1.1 	A bill for an act
1.2 	relating to state government; establishing Tamil Language and Heritage Month;
1.3 	proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 10.
1.4 	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

1.5 	Section 1. [10.552] TAMIL LANGUAGE AND HERITAGE MONTH.
1.6 	(a) The month of January is designated Tamil Language and Heritage Month. Tamil is 
1.7 	the longest surviving classical language in the world, with a traceable history exceeding 
1.8 	2,600 years. Tamil is an official language in India, Sri Lanka, and Singapore and a minority 
1.9 	language in Malaysia, South Africa, Mauritius, and Canada. The Tamil community is 
1.10 	widespread, with about 90 million native speakers across the globe.
1.11 	(b) The Tamil community of Minnesota has contributed significantly to bilingual literacy, 
1.12 	with Minnesota being the first state to achieve a bilingual seal for the Tamil language. The 
1.13 	Tamil community has established a self-sustaining literacy model for the Tamil language 
1.14 	and has made immense contributions to the diverse social, economic, and cultural fabric of 
1.15 	Minnesota life. The Tamil community is committed to sharing its vibrant culture and 
1.16 	traditions with the people of this state.
1.17 	(c) The governor shall issue a proclamation declaring January as Tamil Language and 
1.18 	Heritage Month in Minnesota to celebrate and experience the rich history and inclusive 
1.19 	nature of Tamil heritage.