The International Day of Sign Languages is celebrated every year on September 23rd to raise awareness about the importance of sign languages in preserving the linguistic and cultural identity of the deaf community. It highlights the fundamental human right of deaf individuals to use sign language in all aspects of life, including education, social, and political participation.
According to the World Federation of the Deaf, there are approximately 72 million deaf people worldwide, with over 300 different sign languages being used globally. Sign languages are fully developed languages, with their own grammatical structures, distinct from spoken languages. The day also acknowledges the importance of early access to education in sign language for ensuring full participation in society.
The UN emphasizes that sign languages contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by promoting inclusivity and leaving no one behind, especially in terms of access to information and services. There is also an International Sign Language used in international settings, which serves as a simplified form of communication among deaf individuals from different linguistic backgrounds.
The International Day of Sign Languages is part of the broader International Week of the Deaf, which seeks to promote and protect the rights of deaf people around the world.
Daily themes of the Intern. Week of the Deaf:
- Monday 23 September 2024 - International Day of Sign Languages: Sign Up for Sign Language Rights
- Tuesday 24 September 2024: Inclusive Education
- Wednesday 25 September 2024: Sign Language Advocacy
- Thursday 26 September 2024: Building Resilient Deaf Communities
- Friday 27 September 2024: Diversity in Deaf Communities
- Saturday 28 September 2024: Deaf Cultural Celebrations
- Sunday 29 September 2024: Investing in the future of deaf communities
The International Day of Sign Languages is a unique opportunity to support and protect the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all deaf people and other sign language users. During the 2024 celebration, the world will once again highlight the unity generated by sign languages.
World leaders and other government officials are invited to sign this year’s theme “Sign up for Sign Language Rights” in their national sign language. As we approach the 20th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), adopted in December 2006, let us strive towards a better implementation of the CRPD at the national level through the linguistic human rights of deaf people. Sign up for sign language rights by working with your local and national associations to announce the achievement of a concrete goal for deaf communities today.
To explore how the working world is prepared for integrating deaf individuals, including policies, technologies, and practical implementations, there are several useful resources you can explore:
- Official website @ UN - United Nations
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Human Rights Watch (HRW) - Deaf Rights: HRW emphasizes the importance of sign language as a key aspect of deaf people's rights. They highlight the legal recognition of sign language in 71 countries and the cultural significance of sign language within the deaf community. They also discuss the employment gap for deaf individuals and the necessity of inclusion, such as through sign language interpreters in public events and broadcasting. This report is a good starting point for understanding the broader human rights context. Human Rights Watch
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National Deaf Center (NDC): NDC offers a variety of resources aimed at improving educational and employment outcomes for deaf individuals. They provide training for both deaf job seekers and employers, focusing on breaking down communication barriers and creating more inclusive workplaces. Their toolkit is highly relevant for organizations looking to better integrate deaf employees and ensure equal access to career advancement. National Deaf Center
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European Accessibility Act (EAA): In Europe, the EAA focuses on ensuring digital and physical accessibility for people with disabilities, including deaf individuals. The act requires that key services and products, such as e-commerce platforms, banking, and audiovisual media, be accessible, which includes provisions for subtitles and sign language interpreters. EU Accessibility Act Summary
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World Federation of the Deaf (WFD): WFD works globally to promote the rights of deaf people, with a particular focus on sign language recognition and accessibility in education and employment. They provide reports and resources on the legal framework surrounding sign language and the integration of deaf individuals into everyday life. World Federation of the Deaf
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National Association of the Deaf (NAD): NAD in the United States advocates for policy changes, inclusion in the media, and equal opportunities in employment. Their work includes pushing for more accessible broadcast networks and encouraging the use of sign language interpreters in public events, including political speeches and live broadcasts. National Association of the Deaf
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U.S. Employment Law and Accessibility: In the U.S., the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, including deaf employees. This includes providing interpreters, captioning for broadcasts, and ensuring that online content is accessible to individuals with hearing impairments. The ADA continues to play a significant role in shaping policies that impact the integration of deaf individuals into the workforce. ADA Overview
