Today, along with over 70 million deaf people worldwide, we celebrate International Day of Sign Languages. Early access to education is so important no matter what part of the world you live in—language matters.
Join us in celebrating over 200 native sign languages used worldwide as we highlight sign language as part of each of our countries’ vibrant and diverse linguistic landscapes.
A Message from our Executive Director
Happy International Day of Sign Languages!
Here at the American Society for Deaf Children, we are passionate about early and diverse language accessibility. That’s why awareness days like today are so important for the Deaf community.
Being deaf – or having any disability, for that matter – doesn’t mean you can’t be part of the conversations surrounding global issues.
Having the ability to communicate allows you to have a voice in discussions that affect us. Issues such as how we can all work together to achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals as outlined by the United Nations or advocating for the human rights instruments that support sign language rights with the World Federation of the Deaf or ensuring that there is diverse language accessibility for all children from day one with us here at ASDC.
Early access to education is important no matter what part of the world you live in. Diverse language matters. And it is up to all of us to ensure our world leaders know how important early and equal access to literacy and sign language is for EVERY child.
Today, and every day, ASDC stands with our global and national allies in advocating for early access to language from the very start. We believe that every Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing person has a right to bilingual education, a social-cultural approach that uses sign language as the language of instruction while equally emphasizing the use of the written language(s) in their home country.
Please join me and all of us here at ASDC in leading by example and speaking out on issues that concern you. Especially those surrounding early accessibility to sign language and literacy development for all.
Be part of the global conversation. Help us create a language-diverse world.
With gratitude,
Cheri Dowling
Executive Director
Resources for International Day of Sign Languages
By promoting human rights and access to sign language, the WFD is improving the lives of millions of deaf people who face inequality everyday.
Sign Languages Unite Us! Learn more about the United Nations, and how they’ve included sign language and access to inclusive and quality education as part of their 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
Ways to celebrate International Day of Sign Languages:
- Learn sign language. There are many different sign languages used around the world, so choose one that interests you, or that is relevant to your community.
- Attend a sign language event. Many communities hold events on International Day of Sign Languages to celebrate sign language and Deaf culture.
- Support Deaf-owned businesses and organizations.
- Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about sign language and Deaf culture.
- If you know sign language, USE IT! Even if it’s to say hello or goodbye, be a part of the effort to normalize sign language and make it more visible.
