Sign Language Rights and Human Rights: Celebrating the International Day of Sign Languages
Every year on September 23, people around the world celebrate the International Day of Sign Languages. This year’s theme, “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights,” reminds us that the ability to communicate in your own language is a basic human right. For Deaf and Deafblind communities, sign language is central to education, culture, and daily life.
The United Nations first marked this day in 2018 to draw attention to something many people overlook: not everyone communicates through spoken words. For millions of people, sign languages are their natural, first languages. Without them, access to school, work, healthcare, and even friendship becomes limited. Recognizing sign languages is recognizing the importance of equality and human dignity.
What Are Sign Languages?
Sign languages are full, complex languages with their own grammar, rules, and vocabulary, just like English or French. Contrary to a common belief, there isn’t one universal sign language. Researchers have identified more than 300 sign languages worldwide, each shaped by its own culture and history.
Some examples include:
- American Sign Language (ASL): Used widely in the United States and parts of Canada
- Langue des Signes Québécoise (LSQ): Used by Francophone Deaf communities in Quebec
- British Sign Language (BSL): Common in the United Kingdom
- Inuit Sign Language (IUR): A unique language developed in Inuit communities in Canada
- Indo-Pakistani Sign Language: Used by millions across South Asia
These languages grew naturally in Deaf communities, passed down from one generation to the next.
Adaptations for the Deafblind Community
For people who are both Deaf and blind, sign language adapts in remarkable ways:
- Tactile signing: Hands rest on the signer’s hands to feel movements and shapes.
- Hand-over-hand fingerspelling: Letters are spelled directly into the hand.
- Print-on-palm: Words are traced as block letters onto the palm.
- Protactile language: Created by people who are Deafblind, this method uses touch across the hands, arms, and body to share words, emotions and surroundings.
- These approaches show the creativity of human communication and ensure people who are deafblind also have full access to language and connection.
Languages vs. Systems
It is important to distinguish natural sign languages from artificial systems. Languages like ASL, BSL, and LSQ were developed within Deaf communities and carry cultural meaning and grammar. In contrast, systems like Signed Exact English or Cued Speech were created to mimic spoken languages. While useful for some learners, they are not full languages and cannot replace the richness of true sign languages. Respecting this difference is part of respecting human rights.
The Power of Blue
You may notice the colour blue during Deaf awareness events. Dark blue has become a symbol of Deaf pride and unity. It reflects the idea of “Deafhood,” which celebrates Deaf identity, culture, and history while challenging discrimination such as audism, the belief that hearing ways are superior.
On September 23, landmarks are often lit in blue, and people are encouraged to wear blue to show solidarity. This simple action highlights the importance of valuing Deaf languages and cultures.
How to Take Part
Anyone can join in celebrating the International Day of Sign Languages. Here are some ways:
- Learn a few signs here “7 Helpful ASL Signs You Should Know”.
- Be inclusive by arranging interpreters at events.
- Respect communication by being patient and open with different languages.
- Spread awareness by sharing this year theme: “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights”.
- Encourage schools, community groups, local buildings, or family and friends to “go blue” for the day.
A world that respects every language is a world where everyone belongs. When we honor sign languages, we affirm that human rights include the right to communicate in your own language.
By learning, sharing, and including, we move closer to a world where no one is left out.
