An Offical language – NZSL in New Zealand
Summary provided by AI Overview.
New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) became an official language in April 2006 under the New Zealand Sign Language Act. It is the primary language of the New Zealand Deaf community and uses gestures, facial expressions, and body movements for visual communication. NZSL is independent of English.
Key facts about NZSL as an official language:
- Official Status: NZSL is one of three official languages in New Zealand, along with Te Reo Māori and English, which is considered de facto official.
- Purpose: The 2006 Act permits the use of NZSL in legal proceedings, including courts.
- Recognition & Use:
- NZSL enhances access to government information, services, and public participation for the Deaf community.
- NZSL is a distinct, natural language with its own grammar, separate from spoken languages.
- NZSL is a key expression of Deaf culture and identity, and often incorporates signs representing Māori concepts.
In 2018, approximately 23,000 people in New Zealand had some knowledge of NZSL, and 3,000 to 4,000 Deaf individuals used it as their primary language (Te Ara Encyclopedia of New Zealand).
For reference, here is a 2003 government announcement: https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-recognise-nz-sign-language
A timeline of the proposal and establishment of official NZSL status is available here: https://www.nzsl.govt.nz/about-nzsl/nzsl-act-2006/nzsl-act-2006-history
Today marks twenty years since the Third Reading of the NZSL Act on 6 April 2006. Royal Assent was granted on 10 April 2006.
Many Deaf individuals, including those with disabilities, as well as their families and friends, will celebrate this twentieth anniversary. An additional event is planned for the first week of May during NZSL Awareness Week.
For context, my first language is English, and NZSL is my second. I was born deaf and attended Waikato Deaf Units in Hamilton, then continued my education at Hillcrest High, Waikato WINTEC, and the University of Waikato.
As a Deaf advocate, mentor, and community liaison officer in social services, I support a diverse range of Deaf individuals, including those with disabilities, and promote awareness of NZSL, Deaf culture, technology, legislation, and human rights. I am committed to addressing ableism in both urban and rural communities. Raising awareness is especially important in businesses and health sectors, such as rest homes, where staff should be able to communicate with Deaf customers, residents, seniors, and colleagues. My goal is to eliminate ableism, promote equality, and improve communication through video chat, texting, email, and Microsoft Teams.
NZSL is distinct from other internationally used sign languages, such as ASL (American Sign Language), BSL (British Sign Language), and FSL (French Sign Language).
I can attest that sign language is not only for Deaf individuals, including those with disabilities. Many other disabled people, such as those who are neurodiverse, non-verbal, or have learning disabilities, can use basic sign language, which differs slightly from Makaton. Makaton is a language program that uses signs, symbols, and speech to support children and adults with communication or learning difficulties. It uses signs alongside spoken words in English grammatical order to aid understanding and memory. In New Zealand, Makaton signs are derived from NZSL.
If you are wondering whether tangata turi Māori (Māori Deaf people) have their own reo tohu (sign language), the answer is currently no. Only ariā reo tohu (sign language concepts in te reo Māori) exist. Efforts are underway to create and develop accurate meanings in te reo, though understanding the true meaning remains complex for many.
If you are interested in learning NZSL or another sign language and exploring Deaf culture, now is a great time to start. We encourage you to join us, enjoy the experience, and help create a more inclusive and accessible society by supporting improved technologies.
This photo was taken by R Flynn.
