Welcome Signs in Multiple Languages: A Small Act with Big Impact

When someone walks into a school, the first message they receive is often visual. A multilingual welcome sign can be a powerful way to show students they belong.

Why It Matters

Language is identity. Seeing their home language, Cree, Arabic, Tagalog, Ukrainian, Punjabi, French, and more tells students:

• You are seen.

• You belong here.

• Your voice matters.

This simple act promotes inclusion, pride, and cultural understanding.

How to Start a Multilingual Welcome Wall

• Invite students/staff to share how they say “Welcome.”

• Have students design signs with artwork or cultural symbols.

• Display the signs in a central space, entryway, hallway, gym.

  
  

More Than Decoration: It’s Empowerment

• Voice: Students choose how to represent their culture.

• Empowerment: Inclusion over assimilation.

• Leadership: Older students can guide and mentor younger ones.

Keep the Conversation Going

• Host a “Languages of Our School” week.

• Include multilingual greetings in announcements.

• Add QR codes with audio of students saying “Welcome.”

• Encourage student blogs or videos about their languages.

  
  

Final Thought

A multilingual sign isn’t just a gesture, it’s a statement. When schools reflect the languages and cultures of their students, they don’t just welcome them in, they show them they belong.

Inspired by: Regina Open Door Society