Each year on 23 September, the International Day of Sign Languages provides a global moment to recognise that sign languages are full, natural languages and that access to them is a matter of human rights. According to the World Federation of the Deaf, around 70 million deaf people worldwide use more than 300 different sign languages. For non-English readers and multilingual societies, this day highlights that communication is not only about spoken words but also about inclusion, identity, and dignity.
A Brief History
The idea of recognising a global day for sign languages was proposed by the World Federation of the Deaf in 2017 and formally adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 19 December 2017, with the first official observance held in 2018 alongside the International Week of the Deaf. The date 23 September was chosen because it marks the founding of the World Federation of the Deaf in 1951, and since then the day has gained momentum as governments, civil society, and deaf communities use it to mobilise support for sign-language rights.
Key Statistics and Global Reality
These figures highlight the scale of sign-language use and the urgency of ensuring access to education, interpreting services, and full participation in society, especially in non-English contexts where sign-language rights may remain marginalised.
- Over 70 million deaf people globally.
- More than 300 distinct sign languages used worldwide.
- More than 80% of deaf people live in developing countries.
Core Themes and Current Campaign
Each year, the International Day of Sign Languages uses a theme to focus advocacy, and the 2025 theme is “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights.” These themes highlight priorities such as legal recognition of national sign languages, inclusive education, and disaster preparedness for deaf communities, with the goal of driving policy change and shifting public attitudes beyond symbolic awareness.
Why Multilingual and Non-English Readers Should Care
In multilingual societies, sign languages reflect the diversity of spoken languages and cultures, and neglecting a national sign language can exclude entire communities, including linguistic or ethnic minorities. Recognising sign languages supports linguistic diversity, cultural identity, and equal access to rights, making inclusion possible for deaf people in every region and local community, not only those who use major languages.
Concrete Actions Everyone Can Take
Practical steps by individuals, schools, organisations, and media creators can help normalise sign languages and expand access in everyday life.
- Learn simple signs in your country’s sign language, such as “hello,” “thank you,” and “how are you?”
- Advocate for sign-language classes or interpreting services at local schools and community centres.
- Ask for captions or sign-language interpretation in videos, events, and public communications.
- On 23 September, join or organise an event, raise awareness online, or support “Shine a Blue Light” activities where used.
The Road Ahead and Why It Matters
Despite progress, major gaps remain, including limited early sign-language education for many deaf children, lack of legal recognition of national sign languages in many countries, and shortages of qualified interpreters. The goal is not only celebration but systemic change so deaf people can “sign anywhere,” creating societies where no one is excluded because of how they communicate, and ensuring that local sign languages, institutions, and communities lead inclusion in non-English speaking regions as well.