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September 23rd • Linguistics & Rights

International Day of Sign Languages

A day to support and protect the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all deaf people and other sign language users across the globe. Sign languages are fully fledged natural languages, structurally distinct from spoken languages, but equal in status. Today, we debate the beauty of visual communication, the challenges of urban accessibility, and whether basic sign language should be a mandatory subject in every school.

Hands signing a word or phrase

Speaking Discussion

  • Do you know any words or phrases in sign language? If not, why haven't you learned any yet?
  • Why do you think sign language is often considered just gestures by people who don't understand it?
  • Should basic sign language be taught as a mandatory subject in all primary schools, alongside math and science?
  • What are the biggest daily challenges a deaf person faces in a city that relies heavily on audio announcements (like train stations)?
  • How do closed captions on movies and TV benefit everyone, not just the deaf community?
  • In your opinion, how can technology (like VR or AI translation) improve communication between the deaf and hearing worlds?

Activity 1: The inclusive city Audit

The Task: You are the Accessibility Officer for your city. You have a budget to make the main train station 100% accessible for the deaf.

What radical changes will you implement?

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

  • "The most expressive way to communicate is..."
  • "I think schools should teach..."
  • "In my opinion, technology has made communication..."