The International Day of Sign Languages 2025

The International Day of Sign Languages is celebrated annually on September 23, with the next observance in 2025 focusing on raising awareness about the importance of sign languages for the deaf community.

Significance of the Day

The International Day of Sign Languages was established by the United Nations to promote the recognition and use of sign languages as a vital means of communication for deaf individuals. This day highlights the importance of sign languages in achieving the human rights of deaf people and emphasizes the need for their inclusion in society. It serves as a reminder of the cultural diversity and linguistic identity of sign language users worldwide.

National Day Today

Historical Context

September 23 was chosen as the date for this observance because it marks the founding of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) in 1951. The WFD represents approximately 72 million deaf individuals globally and advocates for their rights and recognition. The first International Day of Sign Languages was celebrated in 2018, and since then, it has become an important occasion to raise awareness and promote sign languages.