Sign language Rights for All!
Today is a very important day for Deaf individuals all over the world. As it marks the beginning of the ‘International Week of the Deaf’ and it is also the ‘International Day of Sign Languages.’
Today, 23rd September 2019 is the “International Week of the Deaf”. This is an initiative of the WFD and was first started in 1958 in Rome, Italy. It will be celebrated from today to 29th September. It is celebrated every year by the Deaf community all over the world. Many activities are conducted by Deaf organisations, Interpreters, Governments all over the world. This year the theme is “Sign Language Rights for All!”. The WFD Board has decided to create a sub-theme for each day of the week. Today 23 September 2019, is also an important day as it is International Day of Sign Languages and today’s theme is “Sign Language Rights for All!” Sign language is very important for a Deaf individual. Sign language helps a Deaf person be involved in the community and make use of their human rights to the fullest.
Governments must provide Deaf people access to Sign language at an early age. Schools must provide education that is inclusive and bilingual. If governments make Sign Language official it will help the Deaf develop in the society. If governments make Sign Language official it will help to implement the rights written in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the UN’s 2030 Agenda. There are lakhs of Deaf Individuals in India who use Indian Sign language on a daily basis. ISL is how they communicate. Making ISL official will give them the accessibility to achieve their dreams. Deaf can do anything and it is all because of the power of Sign language. Right now Deaf in India are facing so many barriers due to inaccessibility and inadequate education. So let's create as much awareness as we can about our beautiful language and teach it to our children, family and friends.
