Date
Tuesday
Sep
23

September 23

International Day of Sign Languages

Celebrate International Day of Sign Languages by learning a few signs and showing support for the Deaf community!

Yearly Date
September 23
Type
Day
Category
Cause

Introduction

Celebrate International Day of Sign Languages on September 23 by recognizing the importance of sign language in communication! This day was established in 2018 to promote the use of sign languages, highlight the importance of access to language services for deaf people, and honor their culture and identity. Sign languages are used all over the world and have been around for centuries – with some variations even predating written language! So take this opportunity to celebrate sign language diversity and raise awareness about its vital role in communication today.

International Day of Sign Languages Timeline

1620
First School for the Deaf
In 1620, the Spanish monk Pedro Ponce de León establishes the first known school for the deaf, using a form of sign language for instruction.
1760
First Public Sign Language School
The Royal Institute for Deaf-Mutes in Paris is established in 1760 by Charles Michel de l'Épée, marking the start of public sign language education.
1817
American School for the Deaf
The American School for the Deaf, the first permanent school of its kind in the United States, opens in Hartford, Connecticut in 1817.
1960
Recognition of American Sign Language
In the 1960s, linguist William Stokoe presents research establishing American Sign Language (ASL) as a full language, opening up academic acceptance and study of sign languages.
2001
UN Recognition of Sign Languages
The United Nations recognizes the linguistic rights of deaf people, emphasizing the importance of sign languages, in a resolution adopted in 2001.
2018
International Day of Sign Languages
The United Nations declares September 23 as International Day of Sign Languages, aiming to promote awareness of sign languages and their contribution to cultural diversity.

How to Celebrate International Day of Sign Languages

1

Learn some sign language

Take the time to learn some basic sign language words and phrases. There are lots of resources available online to help you get started.

2

Teach sign language

Find a local school or community center and offer to teach a sign language course. This is a great way to get involved and spread awareness of sign languages around the world.

3

Organize a sign language event

Organize an event in your community that celebrates sign languages. Invite people from all walks of life to come together and learn more about sign languages.

4

Attend a sign language performance

Check out local performances of sign language plays, musicals, and other theatrical productions. This is a great way to experience the beauty and power of sign languages.

5

Watch a movie in sign language

Watch a movie in sign language with subtitles or audio description. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the world of sign languages and appreciate their beauty.

Why International Day of Sign Languages is Important

A

International Day of Sign Languages celebrates and supports deaf communities

In recognition of International Day of Sign Languages, we are reminded to raise awareness and celebrate the unique culture and language of those who are part of the global deaf community. This day brings an appreciation for sign language as an important part of these individuals’ lives.

B

It promotes equal access to communication

Sign language serves as an invaluable bridge between individuals who are hard of hearing/deaf and those without such a disability. By raising awareness and understanding, sign languages can provide equality in terms of access to educational opportunities and other benefits that may be denied to people with hearing impairments otherwise.

C

It preserves cultural diversity

With over 300 Signed languages spoken around the world, there is a great deal of cultural diversity being preserved and celebrated. From American Sign Language to British Sign Language or any of the others, these different forms give us insight into other cultures that would otherwise remain hidden. Which helps us all learn more about each other!

International Day of Sign Languages Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Sep 22
Friday
2024
Sep 22
Sunday
2025
Sep 22
Monday
2026
Sep 22
Tuesday
2027
Sep 22
Wednesday