Sign languages: The alternative human communication

There are various varieties of sign language, just as spoken languages. Although many hearing people also use sign language, it is predominantly utilized by those who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Britannica defines sign language as “any means of communication through bodily movements, especially of the hands and arms, used when spoken communication is impossible or not desirable.”

Sign language is a visual language that also uses eyes, facial expressions, and movement. The grammar and structural norms of sign language have developed over time, much like those of any spoken language. There are currently more than 300 active sign languages in use, according to National Geographic. 

In order to increase public awareness of the value of sign language in the full realization of deaf people's human rights, the UN General Assembly declared September 23 as the International Day of Sign Languages.

The World Federation of the Deaf (WFD), a federation of 135 national deaf groups representing over 70 million deaf individuals worldwide, proposed the idea for the day, and it was approved on December 19, 2017.

During the first International Week of the Deaf in 2018, the International Day of Sign Languages was observed for the first time. The inaugural International Week of the Deaf was observed in September 1958, and since then it has grown into a worldwide movement of deaf unity and concentrated lobbying to increase public awareness of the problems deaf people experience on a daily basis, according to the UN. 

Mohamed Fawzy, an international lecturer of sign language on Egyptian TV, told Jusoor Post about his innovative initiatives to serve deaf people and those with special needs. 

“I am one of those who took initiatives in the Middle East to dedicate a channel for people with special needs,” he said, adding, “The initiative is called ‘Tawasol’ (communication), which aims at using means of communications such as sign languages to be their gate to the world.” 

Fawzy told us that his initiative is waiting to be approved by the Egyptian Ministry of Social Solidarity. 

“There is another initiative called ‘Tahady’ (challenge), which is a pictorial addressed to those who are deaf or hard of hearing,” he added. 

“A World Where Deaf People Everywhere Can Sign Anywhere!” is this year's theme of the day. Moreover, on September 23, the World Federation of the Deaf encourages all public areas, landmarks, and official structures to be illuminated in blue light. By emphasizing the blue color, it stands for shared commitment to promoting national sign languages and demonstrating support for deaf communities around the world.