Date
Tuesday
May

May 6-12

Deaf Awareness Week

Experience the world with different ears! Join us for Deaf Awareness Week to celebrate, educate, and respect deaf culture & community.

Type
Week
Category
Cause

Introduction

Experience the world with different ears! It's time to bring out your sign language and engage in silent conversations as we step into Deaf Awareness Week starting May 6! This significant week was actually started in Rome by the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) back in 1958, and has since spread globally to increase understanding of deaf culture and community. Around the world, events such as silent walks, sign language workshops, and deaf storytelling are organized for everyone to join in and learn. Far from being a solemn event, Deaf Awareness Week is a vibrant and lively celebration that’s all about embracing diversity, breaking down barriers and deepening our understanding of the world. So let's gear up and embrace the spirit of this unique celebration!

Deaf Awareness Week Timeline

1958
First Meeting of the WFD
The World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) holds its first congress in Rome, paving the way for the establishment of Deaf Awareness Week.
1959
WFD Charter of Human Rights
The WFD establishes a Charter of Human Rights for Deaf People, promoting awareness and equality for deaf individuals globally.
1980s
Global Recognition of Sign Language
Sign languages are officially recognized as full-fledged languages, facilitating communication and understanding in the deaf community.
1991
Passing of the ADA Act
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is passed, leading to increased legal protections and rights for deaf individuals.
2000s
Technological Breakthroughs
Technological advancements and the advent of social media platforms, facilitate inclusivity and communication within the deaf community.
2018
UN Recognizes Sign Languages
The United Nations (UN) officially recognizes sign languages, taking a substantial step towards recognizing deaf rights and culture globally.

How to Celebrate Deaf Awareness Week

1

Learn sign language

Take advantage of Deaf Awareness Week to begin or advance your sign language skills. Find a local class or use online resources to start learning this visual-gestural language that plays a key role in the deaf community.

2

Host a silent dinner party

Invite friends and family over for a silent dinner party. Visitors can communicate purely through sign language, giving everyone a glimpse into the daily life of a deaf person and opens doors for more understanding.

3

Participate in deaf-led events

Check the local news for deaf-led events in your area during Deaf Awareness Week. This may include art exhibits, poetry tor sign-language-storytellers, or panel discussions which provide an opportunity to connect with and learn from the deaf community.

4

Volunteer at a deaf organization

Many organizations serving the deaf community welcome volunteers. This can be an opportunity to engage directly and intimately with the community and develop a better understanding of their experiences.

5

Share what you've learned on social media

Help spread information, understanding, and appreciation of the deaf community by sharing your experiences and what you've learned during Deaf Awareness Week on social media.

Why Deaf Awareness Week is Important

A

Celebrating Deaf Culture and Community

Deaf Awareness Week is a celebration of deaf culture and the diverse deaf community. It's a chance to appreciate and understand the richness of deaf history, the role of sign language, and the unique experiences of deaf individuals. Far from being a solemn event, it's a vibrant and joyous occasion, focusing on positivity and embracing differences.

B

Fostering Understanding and Breaking Down Barriers

This dedicated week serves as an educational platform for the wider public to learn about deafness and deaf people's lives. Activities like attending sign language workshops, hosting silent dinners, and participating in deaf-led events, help break down communication barriers and foster understanding within the broader community.

C

Promoting Inclusion and Respect

Deaf Awareness Week is a time to promote inclusion and respect for deaf individuals. It encourages people to learn about deafness, to use sign language, and to find ways to communicate that are inclusive and respectful. Sharing experiences on social media can help spread this message, creating a more inclusive society.