International Day of Sign Languages (23 September)
Sign languages are structurally distinct from the spoken languages. Early access to sign language and quality education through it contributes effectively to the growth and development of a deaf individual.
A study by the World Federation of the Deaf suggests that there are about 72 million deaf people globally and of them over 80% live in developing countries. They use more than 300 different sign languages. However, there is also an international sign language, which is used by deaf people in international meetings, and during travelling and socialising.
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities which was adopted on December 13, 2006 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, recognises and promotes the use of sign languages. It makes clear that “sign languages are equal in status to spoken languages and obligates states parties to facilitate the learning of sign language and promote the linguistic identity of the deaf community”.
The International Day of Sign Languages (23 September) is a unique opportunity to support and protect the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all deaf people and other sign language users. The day also emphasises the principle of “nothing about us without us” in terms of working with deaf communities.
In his message, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres’ called on all local, national and global leaders to protect and promote the diversity of sign languages and cultures, so that every deaf person can participate in and contribute to society and reach their full potential.
In New Delhi, the day was celebrated at a virtual function organized by the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), an autonomous body under The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment today.
It may be mentioned that the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 recognizes Sign Language as a means of communication. Realising the importance of Sign language for persons with hearing impairment, the Government has set up the ISLRTC in 2015 to promote usage, teaching and research in Indian Sign language that brings people closer and unites them.
– globalbihari bureau
