The International Day of Sign Languages, observed annually on September 23, is a momentous occasion that shines a spotlight on the rich linguistic diversity and cultural significance of sign languages worldwide. This day holds special importance as it marks the anniversary of the founding of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) in 1951. Established to advocate for the rights and cultural preservation of deaf individuals, the WFD has since played a pivotal role in promoting sign languages as bona fide forms of communication.
As the global community gathers to commemorate this day in 2023, it's essential to acknowledge the profound impact of sign languages and their role in the lives of over 72 mn deaf people across the world. These languages, more than 300 in number, are not mere gestural systems; they are complete and complex natural languages with their own grammatical structures and syntax.
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities recognizes the equal status of sign languages alongside spoken languages. This recognition underscores the importance of providing early access to sign language and sign language services, including quality education, to foster the growth and development of deaf individuals and support their full participation in society. Furthermore, this recognition highlights the principle of "nothing about us without us," emphasizing the importance of consulting and involving deaf communities in decision-making processes.
The International Day of Sign Languages is a global platform for governments, civil society organizations, and communities to come together, promoting and protecting the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all sign language users. Sign languages are not confined to national borders; there is also an international sign language that facilitates communication among deaf individuals during international meetings and social interactions.
It is a stark reality that more than 80% of the world's deaf population resides in developing countries, often facing limited access to essential services and education in their native sign languages. The International Day of Sign Languages serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing these disparities and ensuring that all deaf individuals have equal opportunities to access education, healthcare, and employment.
The theme for the 2023 celebration of the International Day of Sign Languages underscores the unity forged through sign languages and the ongoing collaborative efforts of deaf communities, governments, and civil society organizations. These collective efforts play a vital role in recognizing and preserving national sign languages as integral components of each country's linguistic landscape.
The Birth of the International Day of Sign Languages
Sign languages have a rich history, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient times. Plato's Cratylus, written in the 4th century BC, contains one of the oldest recorded accounts of sign language. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that significant insights into historical sign languages began to emerge. Manual alphabets, systems for translating spoken language into sign language, started to evolve, with Pedro Ponce de Leon credited with inventing the first manual alphabet.
The inception of the Day was proposed by the WFD, a distinguished organization representing 135 national associations of deaf individuals, passionately championing the human rights of approximately 72 mn deaf individuals worldwide. This initiative gained the esteemed sponsorship of the Permanent Mission of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations, secured backing from 97 United Nations Member States, and was unanimously embraced on December 19, 2017, through the adoption of resolution A/RES/72/161.
Continuing the Tradition
The International Day of Sign Languages, first celebrated in 2018 as part of the International Week of the Deaf, carries on the tradition of recognizing and honoring the importance of sign languages. Each year, a new theme is selected to educate and raise awareness about the rights and needs of sign language users, emphasizing the inclusion of all individuals, regardless of their communication preferences.
In the contemporary context, sign languages continue to evolve, adapting to regional differences much like spoken languages with their various accents and dialects. British Sign Language, for instance, is distinct from American Sign Language despite both countries sharing English as a spoken language.
To cap off the celebration of this remarkable day, here are five fascinating facts about sign languages:
- Fourth Most Used Language in the U.K.: British Sign Language is the primary language of 15,000 individuals in England and Wales, with over 125,000 adults in the United Kingdom proficient in its use.
- Different Countries, Different Sign Languages: Despite sharing a spoken language, countries may have entirely different sign languages. Regional differences within sign languages are also common.
- More Than Hand Gestures: Sign languages employ facial expressions, gestures, and body language, along with hand signs. They have their own unique grammatical systems.
- Personalized 'Name Signs': Many sign language users have personal "name signs" that serve as a unique identifier, similar to a nickname.
- Accessible Learning: While sign languages may appear complex, they are accessible and can be learned effectively with proper instruction.
The International Day of Sign Languages reminds us that linguistic diversity enriches our world. By recognizing and celebrating sign languages, we embrace the global mosaic of cultures and languages, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey towards inclusivity and equality.
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