International Week of Deaf People 2025: No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights

Hello, celebration season.

International Week of Deaf People (22–28 September 2025)  kicks off today, with International Day of Sign Languages tomorrow, 23 September.. The World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) theme is clear and powerful:

"No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights."

That’s a bold statement, but an important one. Without access to sign language, Deaf people are excluded from education, employment, healthcare, and community life. Sign language rights are human rights. Full stop.

This week is about joy and action. Culture and community. Rights and real change.

Here’s your quick guide to what’s happening and how you can get involved. Scroll till the end! 🤩

2025 daily themes with simple ways to take part

Each day of the week shines a light on a different angle of inclusion:

Monday 22 September – Deaf communities leading

Deaf-led alliances play a vital role in advancing sign language rights. True progress happens when Deaf people lead and others stand beside them as allies.

👉 Try this: Share a post from a Deaf-led organisation on your socials to amplify their voice.

Tuesday 23 September – No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights (International Day of Sign Languages)

Sign language rights are human rights. Without them, Deaf people cannot fully enjoy equality. This day is a reminder that language access is the foundation of inclusion.

👉 Try this:  Learn three BSL signs and teach them to a colleague

Wednesday 24 September – Multilingual education for Deaf learners

Every Deaf child deserves education in their national sign language, alongside peers, in settings that respect both culture and language.

👉 Try this: Talk to your school or college about the Declaration on the Rights of Deaf Children. Share our free classroom resource "How to support Deaf students in educational environments"

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Thursday 25 September – Deaf Rights in Crises

Emergencies affect everyone, but information is not always accessible to Deaf people. Inclusion in disaster planning saves lives.

👉 Try this: Check if your workplace or school knows how to make emergency announcements accessible in BSL. Run a caption and comms check for crisis messages

Friday 26 September – Recognition of National Sign Language

National sign languages must be legally recognised for Deaf people to enjoy equal rights. Recognition is more than words; it’s about real participation.

👉 Try this: Explore the WFD guidelines on achieving sign language rights. Share why BSL recognition matters to you and write to your local representatives about practical implementation

Saturday 27 September – Sign Language Access Services

Deaf people have the right to choose their language access, whether BSL or International Sign. Proper planning and budgeting ensure true inclusion.

👉 Try this: If you’re hosting an event, ask: “Have we booked interpreters or captioning?” Planning ahead makes all the difference

Sunday 28 September – Set the basis for the future

Deaf communities are innovators. From technology to culture, Deaf knowledge shapes the world.

👉 Try this: Celebrate Deaf creators and technologists

Quick ways you can celebrate all week

• Learn basic BSL and practice daily

• Caption every video and meeting

• Share stories from Deaf creators and activists

• Volunteer or fundraise for Deaf led groups

• Download and print our posters for your office or classroom.

  
  

FAQ corner

How many sign languages exist?

There are more than 300 different sign languages around the world. Just like spoken languages, they’re shaped by culture, history, and community. Even within the same country, there can be regional variations.

How many Deaf people are in the world?

The World Federation of the Deaf estimates there are about 72 million Deaf people worldwide. Together, they form a vibrant global community with diverse experiences and identities.

Is sign language universal?

No. Sign language is not universal. Each country, and sometimes each region, has its own rich and complex language. For example, British Sign Language (BSL) and American Sign Language (ASL) are completely different, despite both countries speaking English.

What are "sign names"?

A sign name is a unique and personal way to identify someone without fingerspelling their name every time. It reflects identity, often linked to personality, appearance, or a meaningful characteristic. Read more about sign names here.

How many people in the UK use BSL?

The British Deaf Association (BDA) reports that around 151,000 people in the UK use BSL. This includes Deaf people, family members, interpreters, and members of the wider Deaf community.

Does sign language only use hands?

Not at all. Sign languages use facial expressions, body movement, and spatial awareness alongside hand shapes. These features carry grammar and meaning, making them full, natural languages in their own right.

Do all Deaf people use sign language?

Not necessarily. While many Deaf people use a sign language, others may rely on lipreading, spoken language, hearing aids, or cochlear implants. Communication preferences vary from person to person, and the most inclusive approach is simply to ask.

Is Makaton the same as BSL?

No. Makaton is not the same as British Sign Language. Makaton is a communication system that combines signs, speech, and symbols, often used to support people with learning disabilities. BSL is a full, independent language with its own grammar and structure, used by the Deaf community in the UK.

Keep connected this week

We’ve got a full programme for you during International Week of Deaf People:

💡 Daily posts packed with insights, tips, and stories

📲 Fun and educational Instagram Reels and carousels

📰 A special newsletter titled "👋 Hello, Hola, Bonjour, Ciao… and HELLO in BSL!"  (subscribe so you don’t miss it! - You'll love it!💜)

📥 Free resources for workplaces and educators on our freebies page: https://www.deafumbrella.com/freebies

This is about action, allyship, and celebrating the richness of Deaf culture.

Let’s make sure everyone knows: No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights.