The United Nations’ International Day of Sign Languages (IDSL) is annually observed on September 23 to raise awareness about the importance of sign languages for the deaf community and promote their linguistic rights. This day highlights the linguistic diversity and cultural significance of sign language, emphasizing its role in supporting the rights of deaf people globally. The focus on sign language rights is especially relevant as we approach the 20th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in 2026.
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2024 Theme: “Sign up for Sign Language Rights”
- The theme for International Day of Sign Languages 2024 is “Sign up for Sign Language Rights.”
- This year’s theme urges world leaders to support sign language rights in their countries by using national sign languages.
- The theme emphasizes the importance of including sign languages in national policies to promote equality and inclusion for the deaf community.
Significance of the International Day of Sign Languages
- Human Rights Recognition: The IDSL recognizes the importance of sign languages in realizing the human rights of deaf people globally.
- Raising Awareness: The day aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by the deaf community and celebrate the richness of sign language culture.
- Promotion of Linguistic Diversity: The IDSL promotes linguistic diversity, encouraging the preservation of sign languages worldwide.
Background and History of the IDSL
- The idea for the International Day of Sign Languages was proposed by the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD), a global organization representing 135 national associations of deaf people.
- The UN General Assembly adopted the resolution proclaiming September 23 as the International Day of Sign Languages in 2017.
- The first IDSL was observed on September 23, 2018, and it is celebrated as part of the International Week of Deaf People (IWDP), which began in 1958.
Why September 23?
- The date commemorates the establishment of the World Federation of the Deaf in 1951. This advocacy organization plays a critical role in preserving sign languages and Deaf culture as part of global human rights initiatives.
About Sign Language
- Visual Communication: Sign language is a visual language expressed through physical movements. It is a fully developed natural language distinct from spoken languages.
- Main Form of Communication: For millions of people who are deaf or hard of hearing, sign language is the primary means of communication.
- Global Reach: There are over 70 million deaf people worldwide, using more than 300 sign languages.
Symbol of IDSL: The Blue Ribbon
- The colour blue has been used by the WFD since its founding in 1951. The Blue Ribbon is a symbol of the deaf community’s ongoing struggle for equality and recognition of their national sign languages.
Key Events for International Day of Sign Languages 2024
- Global Leader Challenges: Organized by the WFD, this challenge encourages world leaders to promote the use of national sign languages.
- Blue Light for Sign Languages: This event seeks to unite the world through the symbol of the blue light, representing the inclusion and solidarity of societies.
Events in India
- On September 23, 2024, the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE), organized an event in New Delhi to celebrate the IDSL.
- Key Focus: The event centered on the unity fostered by sign languages and their preservation as a crucial part of linguistic diversity.
- Notable Guests: The event was presided over by B.L. Verma, Minister of State, and attended by various dignitaries like Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary (DEPwD), and Dr. Sharanjeet Kaur, Chairperson of RCI.
Launches and Initiatives during the Event
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- Expansion of ISL Dictionary:
- Collaboration with organizations like YUNIKEE, India Signing Hands, Bridge Connectivity Solutions, and Anuprayaas Solutions led to the addition of 2,500 new ISL terms.
- These terms cover subjects like mathematics, science, geography, and more.
- Educational Videos: ISLRTC launched 100 videos focusing on key foundational concepts for Class 6 subjects in ISL.
- Regional Language Accessibility: The ISL Dictionary was expanded into 10 regional languages, making it more accessible to diverse communities.
- Deaf Role Model Videos: Released by India Signing Hands, these videos are designed to inspire the deaf community.
- SWAAS Platform: A secure platform for accessing the websites of 25 national institutes and the Ministry, available in 13 regional languages.
- Awards Ceremony: Trophies and certificates were awarded to the winners of the 7th ISL Competition for students with hearing disabilities.
Looking Forward
As we approach the 20th anniversary of the UN CRPD in 2026, the efforts toward national recognition of sign languages continue to gain momentum. The International Day of Sign Languages 2024 serves as a reminder of the vital role that sign languages play in ensuring the human rights of deaf communities around the world.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of the International Day of Sign Languages?
The main purpose is to raise awareness about the importance of sign language and the rights of deaf people.
What is the theme of the International Day of Sign Languages in 2024?
The theme for 2024 has not been officially announced yet. However, past themes have focused on inclusivity and accessibility.
How to celebrate International Day of Sign Languages?
You can celebrate by learning basic sign language, attending workshops or events that promote sign language, and supporting organizations that advocate for the rights of the deaf community.
What is the color of Sign Language Day?
There isn’t an official color for Sign Language Day, but blue is often associated with deaf awareness.
What is the most common sign language?
American Sign Language (ASL) is one of the most common sign languages globally, especially in North America.
Why is sign language so important?
Sign language is vital because it allows deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals to communicate effectively and access information.
How many sign languages are there?
There are over 300 different sign languages around the world.
What is 7 sign language?
“7 sign language” may refer to different sign languages using “seven” as a handshape. There’s no specific “7 sign language.”
Is there a universal sign language?
No, there is no universal sign language. Each country or region often has its own sign language.
Are ASL and sign language the same?
ASL is a type of sign language, specifically used in the United States and parts of Canada.
Sign languages alphabet?
Each sign language has its own alphabet, known as a manual alphabet, used for spelling out words.
Most common sign language?
American Sign Language (ASL) is among the most common, but British Sign Language (BSL) and French Sign Language (LSF) are also widely used.
Sign languages list?
Some of the most used sign languages include ASL (American), BSL (British), ISL (Indian), JSL (Japanese), and LSF (French).
Sign languages for kids?
Sign language for kids includes simplified signs to help children learn basic communication, often starting with words like “eat,” “milk,” or “play.”
Sign Language words?
Common words in sign language include “thank you,” “hello,” “yes,” and “no.” Each word has its own unique sign.
International Sign language?
International Sign (IS) is a simplified form of sign language used in international meetings and events.
Examples of sign language?
Examples of sign language include signs for “friend,” “family,” “eat,” and “love.” Each of these signs is expressed with distinct hand movements.
What is sign language called?
Sign language is known by different names depending on the country, such as ASL (American Sign Language) or BSL (British Sign Language).