Saturday 23rd September 2023

“Today, we share the WFD’s vision of a world where deaf people everywhere can sign anywhere. A world where deaf people are seen as a part of the natural range of human diversity, and national sign languages are celebrated and used everywhere as part of national societies. The WFD calls upon all governments to take measures to ensure at least 50% of their children and youth know their national sign languages, as a step towards building societies in which deaf people everywhere can sign anywhere.”

Acknowledging and respecting our mother languages is of utmost importance for those of us in the D/deaf community. Our ability to communicate seamlessly through sign language is a source of pride for individuals of all ages and abilities. Yet, feeling left out in other environments, like family events and workplaces, can be disheartening while accessing services like cafes, schools, and healthcare providers. The solution to this predicament lies in education and empathy. By taking the initiative to learn our sign language, others can foster meaningful connections with us and make us feel included in all facets of life.

It’s of utmost importance to acknowledge the Deaf community and culture and the benefits of Sign Language for infants born with hearing impairment, even though it can be difficult for new families to come to terms with. While it’s natural for parents to desire their child to be able to hear and speak, it’s essential to understand that being Deaf is not a disability. Their child can still thrive and communicate effectively within the Deaf community in numerous ways.

It is crucial for the healthcare and education industries to prioritise understanding languages and inclusivity. Addressing hearing loss goes beyond the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants to facilitate speech. It is about empowering parents to make informed decisions for their D/deaf child. I highly recommend engaging with D/deaf parents and communities for valuable insights and understanding. Above all, respecting the freedom to use sign language anywhere is essential.

Ever since I was a toddler, I’ve been relying on hearing aids to navigate the world around me. My parents emphasised the importance of being proactive and communicating effectively, which has served me well. I’m using two languages, English and sign language, and my BA degree has also allowed me to become proficient in other languages. When people ask how my hearing aids have helped me, my response depends on the situation. In busy, noisy environments like parking lots or public gatherings, but in places like airports or train stations, the constant background noise of announcements can be overwhelming and stressful.

Sign language is an incredibly effective means of communication, especially in public locations like airports and train stations, to ensure that everyone can benefit as everyone else. It’s vital to display pertinent information on screens, such as “boarding number 454 now at Gate 4,” to enhance the visual accessibility of sign language. During my global travels, I was pleasantly surprised to see flight attendants using sign language when I boarded the plane. In addition, the flight safety guide was always available on my seat or the screens in front of passengers, while train conductors and staff pointed to signs and timetables to guide me on my way. Ultimately, it’s crucial to make information more accessible to everyone, and sign language is an ideal tool to accomplish this goal.

Mastering sign language is of utmost importance, especially during times of natural disasters such as devastating floods or raging wildfires. It enables us to communicate effectively and reach out for assistance, counsel, and direction in critical situations. The importance of sign language cannot be overstated, and it is essential to recognise its potential to make a meaningful impact in times of crisis. Have you given any thought to acquiring sign language skills?