By decision of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, the international community observes the International Day of Sign Languages on September 23.
Sea-news.az reports that this important day was first observed in 2018. The International Day of Sign Languages draws attention to people with hearing and speech impairments, as well as to those who use approximately 300 different sign languages for communication.
According to the UN, this year’s observance is held under the theme “Declaration of the Rights of Deaf People.” The theme highlights the importance of recognizing, protecting and promoting the rights of deaf people, including ensuring full accessibility through the use of national sign languages.
On the occasion, the UN calls for action to ensure that the rights of deaf people become a reality in all areas of life.
It should be noted that sign languages are natural languages that differ from spoken languages and allow people to express their thoughts fully. The use of sign languages is recognized and supported by the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The document states that sign languages have the same status as spoken languages. UN Member States should facilitate the learning of sign languages and support the development of the linguistic and cultural identity of deaf communities.
