Celebrating Sign Language Week

This month, the United Kingdom comes together to celebrate Sign Language Week, a time dedicated to recognising the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL). From March 18th to 24th, communities across the UK join hands to raise awareness, promote inclusivity, and celebrate the vibrant Deaf community.

Commemorating linguistic recognition

Sign Language Week holds special significance as it commemorates the acknowledgment of BSL as a language in its own right by the UK Government on March 18th, 2003. This milestone marked a crucial step towards recognising the linguistic diversity and cultural importance of BSL and ISL within the UK.

Organised by the British Deaf Association

Sign Language Week is organised by the British Deaf Association, which has chosen the theme of ‘Promoting BSL and ISL as indigenous languages of the UK.’ The campaign aims to celebrate, educate about, and preserve BSL and ISL for future generations. This year’s theme colour, turquoise, inspired by the Deaf flag, symbolises pride, unity, and the journey of Deafhood.

Protect, promote, preserve BSL

BSL was legally recognised in law by the UK Government on April 28th, 2022, now celebrated annually as ‘National BSL Day.’ The mission to ‘Protect, Promote, and Preserve’ BSL and ISL is crucial in combating audism and advocating for the rights of Deaf individuals globally.

Embracing cultural identity

The Deaf flag, approved by members of the World Federation of the Deaf, including the BDA, is a powerful symbol for Deaf communities worldwide. Turquoise Blue represents the Deaf community and Sign Language, while Yellow symbolises enlightenment and unity, and Dark Blue embodies Deafhood and the collective journey towards combating audism.

Educational initiatives and community engagement

Sign Language Week offers a myriad of opportunities for community engagement and educational initiatives. From free BSL lessons for companies to the UK’s largest BSL lesson hosted by Signature, there are ample opportunities to learn, engage, and celebrate the beauty of sign languages.

Upholding the rights of deaf children

The Declaration on the Rights of Deaf Children, endorsed at the WFD’s XXI General Assembly, outlines ten articles dedicated to upholding and advocating for the rights of deaf children globally. It underscores the importance of linguistic accessibility and inclusive education for all.

Promoting inclusivity and accessibility

As the ‘National Representative Organisation of British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) in the UK,’ it is our responsibility to ‘Promote, Preserve, and Protect’ BSL and ISL. These national sign languages have faced marginalisation for over a century, emphasising the need for inclusivity and accessibility in all aspects of society.

As Sign Language Week draws to a close, let us continue to honour and celebrate the linguistic heritage of BSL and ISL. By promoting inclusivity, raising awareness, and advocating for the rights of Deaf individuals, we can create a more equitable and inclusive society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Together, let us embrace the diversity of sign languages and reaffirm our commitment to linguistic accessibility and cultural inclusivity.