International Week of the Deaf 2024 (20th to 26th September)

International Week of the Deaf 2024

The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, is collaborating with organizations within its purview to observe the International Week of the Deaf (IWDeaf) from September 20, 2024, to September 26, 2024.

During this week, the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), which operates as an autonomous organization under the DEPwD, has taken the lead. ISLRTC is the primary institution responsible for research, development, training, and raising awareness about Indian Sign Language (ISL) throughout India. As part of IWDeaf, ISLRTC is organizing various activities centered around specific themes.

International Week of the Deaf Theme 2024

The International Week of the Deaf (IWDeaf) celebrations organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) and the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) encompass various important themes and initiatives. These themes revolve around promoting awareness of the Declaration of the Rights of the Deaf Child, enhancing global capacity, emphasizing the motto “Nothing Without Us,” advocating for the inclusion of Deaf individuals in agendas, championing sign language rights for all, and fostering the creation of inclusive Deaf communities.

On the occasion of ISL Day, which falls on September 23, the department will launch several flagship programs under the theme, “A World where Deaf People Everywhere Can Sign Anywhere”. These initiatives include introducing Video Relay Services, developing sign language videos explaining financial and banking terms, implementing ISL courses at special schools for the Speech and Hearing Impaired, and launching a self-learning-mode-based ISL Course. These efforts aim to empower Deaf individuals, enhance their self-reliance, and provide communication skills to their family members, fostering a more inclusive society.

Workshop

To promote a better understanding of Indian Sign Language (ISL) within the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), a two-hour ISL learning workshop was conducted on September 21, 2023. Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, the Secretary of DEPwD, chaired the workshop. All officers of the department also attended the workshop.

During the workshop, participants had the opportunity to learn various daily communication signs in ISL, and they also gained an understanding of all the signs representing the English alphabet. This initiative reflects the commitment of the Department, under the visionary and empathetic leadership of Secretary Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, to empower individuals with hearing impairments and promote inclusivity within the broader communities associated with them.

History of International Week of the Deaf

The International Week of the Deaf is an annual event celebrated worldwide during the last full week of September. Its origins can be traced back to 1958 in Rome, Italy, where the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) held its first World Congress.

Key Milestones in the History of International Week of the Deaf

• 1958: The WFD establishes International Week of the Deaf, commemorating the month in which the first World Congress was held.
• 1960s and 70s: The Week gains momentum within the Deaf community, with various activities and events organized by national associations.
• 1980s and 90s: The focus shifts to raising public awareness about Deaf culture, language, and challenges faced by the community.
• 2009: International Week of the Deaf is officially recognized by the United Nations.
• 2018: The Week coincides with the first official International Day of Sign Languages, declared by the UN.

Significance of International Week of the Deaf

• Raising Awareness: The Week serves as a platform to educate the public about Deaf culture, language, and the unique experiences of Deaf individuals.
• Promoting Deaf Rights: It advocates for the rights of Deaf people to equal access to education, employment, communication, and participation in society.
• Celebrating Deaf Achievements: The Week highlights the contributions of Deaf individuals in various fields and celebrates their achievements and resilience.
• Strengthening the Community: It brings together the global Deaf community, fostering unity, collaboration, and a sense of belonging.
• Inspiring Future Generations: It encourages young Deaf individuals to embrace their identity and pursue their dreams.

About the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC)

The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) is an autonomous center under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It was established in 2011. Its objective is to promote using Indian Sign Language (ISL) as an educational mode for deaf students at primary, secondary, and higher education levels.

The ISLRTC also researches ISL and publishes books and articles on the subject. It also provides ISL training to teachers, parents, and other stakeholders.

The ISLRTC is playing a vital role in promoting the use of ISL and improving the lives of deaf people in India. It is a valuable resource for the deaf community and for all those who are interested in learning about ISL.

20th September 2024 Special Day

From September 20 to September 26, 2024, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) collaborates with organizations to observe the International Week of the Deaf (IWDeaf). This initiative, under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, highlights the significance of raising awareness and promoting inclusion for the deaf community. Let’s support efforts that empower individuals with disabilities, fostering an inclusive society where the unique contributions of every person are acknowledged and celebrated.

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