Communication is a very important tool for exchanging messages in different situations. The role of communication in the socio-economic and political growth and development of any nation cannot be underestimated. Unfortunately, individuals that are deaf find it extremely difficult to exchange messages or converse with people especially owing to the fact that most people do not know how to communicate with sign languages. Information from the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD), states that there are approximately 72 million deaf people all over the world, and it is sad to note that over 80% of deaf people reside in developing countries, and collectively communicate with over 300 different sign languages. There is great need to promote the use of sign languages globally, prompting the United Nations General Assembly to declare September 23 as International Day of Sign Languages.
International Day of Sign Languages
Following a resolution proposed through the Permanent Mission of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations, and an original request made by the World Federation of the Deaf, the UN General Assembly on December 19, 2017, declared September 23 as International Day of Sign Languages. A total of 97 UN Member States were also part of the process by voting for the adoption of the resolution as co-sponsors. September 23 was chosen as the day for the commemoration because the World Federation of the Deaf was established on same date in 1951.
Part of the major objectives of the IDSL includes creating awareness about sign languages globally and strengthening its status so that the world will see sign languages as effective communication skill. The celebration of the IDSL usually takes place on the whole last week of September annually, to form part of the International Week of the Deaf. Also, the International Day of Sign Languages is accompanied with a theme every year. September 23, 2018 marked the first celebration of the International Day of Sign languages under the theme “With Sign Language, Everyone is Included”
International Day of Sign Languages 2019
With the theme ‘’Sign Language Right for All,’’ the 2019 IDSL aims to promote the campaign for the use of sign languages and ensure that no one in the global Deaf Community is left behind. This year’s celebration is a call on global actors and decision makers to promote the cause of deaf people and ensure that deaf people and all users of sign languages get linguistic rights in a world dominated by oral communication.
This International Day recognizes the importance of sign languages for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and fulfilling its core promise of leaving no one behind. It also offers an opportunity to support and protect the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all sign language users
António Guterres – UN Secretary General
Sign languages are equal in status to oral communication, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities recognizes and promotes the use of sign languages all over the world, urging stakeholders worldwide to facilitate the learning of sign languages and promote the deaf community’s linguistic identity. Further, it is necessary to note that there is an international sign language used by deaf people in international gatherings and informally when they socialize or travel. Fostering the use of sign languages globally is a great idea.
Sources:
UN
Wfdeaf
Featured Image Source: UN
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