International Day of Sign Languages: There are more than 70 million deaf people in the world, most of whom live in developing countries, according to research by the World Federation of the Deaf. They have access to sign language as a means of communication. Although there are more than 300 different sign languages, deaf people often use International Sign Language when attending international conferences and conversing informally while traveling and socializing.
International Day of Sign Languages is commemorated annually on September 23 to recognize the value of sign language. Furthermore, on this day in 1951, the World Federation of the Deaf (FMA) was founded.
International Day of Sign Languages
Every year on September 23, people around the world celebrate International Sign Language Day to raise awareness about the value of sign language and safeguard the linguistic uniqueness of sign language users and sign language users. deaf people. ‘Sign languages unite us’ is the theme of this year’s International Sign Language Day.
Despite having structural differences with spoken languages, sign language is recognized by the United Nations (UN) as a full-fledged natural language. Visual-manual communication is used in sign languages to communicate the message. The use of sign languages is recognized and given the same status as spoken languages under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The agreement also calls for nations to assist in the spread of sign languages.
Summary of the International Day of Sign Languages
Importance of the International Day of Sign Languages
Since sign language is the primary means of communication for the deaf community, it is crucial to offer deaf students high-quality instruction in the language. To achieve the globally recognized development goals, early access to sign language and excellent sign language teaching are also essential. Due to the importance of maintaining sign languages as a component of linguistic and cultural diversity, the International Day of Sign Languages was established.
The inaugural International Week of the Deaf, which included the International Day of Sign Languages, took place in 2018. The inaugural International Week of the Deaf was commemorated in September 1958 and has since become an international campaign of Deaf advocacy to increase public awareness. of the problems that deaf people experience daily.
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History of the observance of the International Day of Sign Languages
The 70 million deaf people worldwide are represented by the 135 national deaf organizations that make up the World Federation of the Deaf. The federation was founded on September 23, 1951. The WFD proposed a resolution in 2017 to commemorate the International Day of Sign Languages in order to raise awareness about the need to preserve sign languages and deaf culture. , as well as the legal rights of deaf people around the world. balloon.
The inaugural International Day of Sign Languages was commemorated on September 23, 2018, thanks to the resolution, which has 97 United Nations Member States as co-sponsors. The day will be celebrated for the sixth time in 2023.
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International Day of Sign Languages Celebrations 2023
The goal of International Day of Sign Languages, celebrated globally, is to increase public understanding of deaf people and sign language. On this day, people are urged to research sign language and try to learn it. People are welcome to attend activities and performances organized by various governmental and non-governmental organizations with the aim of raising awareness.
Many organizations also host fundraising events that you can participate in as a donor or volunteer.
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Theme of International Day of Sign Languages 2023
Each year, International Day of Sign Languages has a theme announced by the World Federation of the Deaf.
Theme of International Day of Sign Languages 2023: “Sign languages unite us!
Theme of International Day of Sign Languages 2022: Sign languages unite us
The theme for 2021 was “We stand for human rights,” which focused on the coexistence of hearing and deaf people.
Conclusion
The International Day of Sign Languages is a global celebration that aims to raise awareness about the importance and promote the rights of deaf people. Sign languages are not just visual representations of spoken language, but are complete and distinct languages with their own grammatical rules and cultural nuances. This day provides the opportunity to recognize and appreciate the linguistic diversity and cultural richness that sign languages bring to our world. It also highlights the need for greater accessibility and inclusion of deaf people in all aspects of society. By recognizing and celebrating sign languages, we can work towards a more inclusive and equal society for all.
Frequently asked questions about International Day of Sign Languages
Why is the International Day of Languages celebrated?
To raise awareness about the importance of sign language in defending the human rights of deaf people, the United Nations General Assembly has designated September 23 as International Day of Sign Languages. This day aims to create a world where deaf people can communicate using sign language regardless of their location.
Why was September 23 chosen as sign language day?
The election of September 23 is significant because it signifies the founding of the WFD in 1951. This particular day symbolizes the establishment of an advocacy group that prioritizes the protection of sign languages and deaf culture as essential elements to defend the human rights of deaf people.
What day is International Sign Language Day celebrated?
The United Nations General Assembly declared September 23 as the International Day of Sign Languages. The day is recognized as such to raise awareness about the importance of sign language around the world.
What is the official sign language?
American Sign Language (ASL) is an innate and complete language that has the same linguistic characteristics as verbal languages, although with grammar that varies from that of English. ASL is transmitted through facial and hand movements.
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