International Day of Sign Languages is a significant event celebrated annually on September 23 to promote the recognition and support of sign language. This day marks an opportunity to acknowledge the cultural diversity and linguistic identity of deaf individuals and other sign language users globally. The commemoration of this day began in 2018, reflecting a growing awareness of the importance of sign language in achieving equality and inclusivity for the deaf community. Each year, the day is themed to highlight various aspects of sign language and its role in society. This year’s theme, “We Sign For Human Rights,” underscores the critical need for international cooperation to enhance and integrate the use of sign language in every facet of daily life.
Origins and Significance
International Day of Sign Languages was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2017. The resolution A/RES/72/161 aimed at fostering an understanding of the importance of sign language and services in sign languages for the growth and development of the deaf community. September 23 was chosen to commemorate the same date in 1951 when the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) was established, an organization that plays a central role in advocating for the human rights of deaf people worldwide. The day is part of the International Week of the Deaf, which is celebrated during the last full week of September.
Theme: We Sign For Human Rights
The theme for the International Day of Sign Languages in 2023, “We Sign For Human Rights,” focuses on the promotion of sign languages as a fundamental human right. This theme highlights the necessity of recognizing sign language as equal to spoken languages, ensuring that deaf people and other sign language users have access to education, information, and services in their native language. The theme also calls for the empowerment of deaf culture and the removal of barriers that prevent full participation in society.
Global Impact and Awareness
The celebration of the International Day of Sign Languages has a profound global impact. It raises awareness about the millions of people who use sign language as their primary means of communication. Events and campaigns on this day serve to educate the public about the diversity of sign languages—there are over 300 different sign languages used around the world—and the challenges faced by the deaf community. By bringing attention to these issues, the day promotes a more inclusive world where sign language is recognized and valued.
Importance of Sign Language in Inclusivity
Sign language is crucial for the inclusion of deaf people in all aspects of society. It enables them to exercise their rights, access education and healthcare, and participate in decision-making processes. Recognizing sign language as an official language is a step towards ensuring equal opportunities for deaf individuals. On International Day of Sign Languages, organizations and governments are reminded of the need to implement policies that support the learning and use of sign language, such as providing sign language classes and interpretation services.
Encouraging International Collaboration
The theme “We Sign For Human Rights” also encourages international collaboration. Countries are urged to share resources, research, and best practices to support the learning and spread of sign languages. International cooperation can lead to greater standardization in sign language education and interpretation services, thereby improving communication and understanding between deaf and hearing communities globally.
Promoting Cultural Diversity and Linguistic Identity
Finally, International Day of Sign Languages plays a critical role in promoting the cultural diversity of the deaf community. Sign languages are not universal; they are as diverse as spoken languages, with each having its own grammar, syntax, and expressions. This day celebrates the rich cultural heritage embedded in sign languages and supports the preservation of these languages for future generations. By doing so, it helps maintain the linguistic identity of deaf individuals, which is essential for their social well-being and sense of belonging.
