International Day of Sign Languages

International Day of Sign Languages History

International Day of Sign Languages is an annual observance that aims to raise awareness about the importance of sign languages as a vital means of communication for millions of deaf and hard-of-hearing people worldwide. It seeks to preserve and promote sign languages as the rich cultural heritage of deaf communities globally. The day also emphasizes the need to support and facilitate access to sign language education and learning for everyone, allowing the inclusion and full participation of deaf individuals in all aspects of society.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the International Day of Sign Languages in December 2017, with the first observance on 23 September 2018. In Australia, Australian Sign Language (Auslan) is the predominant sign language used by the deaf community, and it is a critical component in the education, socialization, and overall well-being of deaf Australians. With around 30,000 daily users, this observance encourages Australians to learn and engage with sign language, helping to bridge the gap between hearing and deaf communities and promoting inclusivity across the country.

In Australia, the International Day of Sign Languages is observed through various events and initiatives to raise awareness and promote the use and understanding of Auslan. Organizations like the Deaf Society and Australian Sign Language Interpreters' Association often host workshops, webinars, and other educational activities for people interested in learning sign language or supporting the deaf community. International Day of Sign Languages takes place annually on 23 September, providing an opportunity for Australians to celebrate the rich culture of Auslan and the rights of deaf individuals to access communication without barriers.

Top 10 Facts for 2026 International Day of Sign Languages in Australia

• The 2026 observance of the International Day of Sign Languages features the specific global theme, “Declaring Deaf People's Human Rights,” which emphasizes the fundamental necessity of sign language for achieving full human rights equality.
• This annual event serves as a focal point for the broader International Week of the Deaf, a period dedicated to celebrating the achievements, culture, and linguistic identity of Deaf communities across Australia.
• Auslan, which stands for Australian Sign Language, is a fully developed natural language with its own unique grammar, vocabulary, and structure that is distinct from spoken English.
• The date of September 23 was established by the United Nations to commemorate the founding of the World Federation of the Deaf in 1951, honoring its history of advocacy for Deaf individuals worldwide.
• Globally, there are more than 70 million Deaf people who collectively use over 300 different sign languages, showcasing the immense linguistic and cultural diversity within the global Deaf community.
• Auslan is an evolving language that has been part of Australian life since the late 1700s, with modern usage drawing from British and Irish sign language influences.
• The United Nations and international agreements recognize sign languages as having equal status to spoken languages, obligating states to facilitate their learning and protect the linguistic identity of Deaf people.
• Linguistic research and educational resources, such as those found in the visual podcast series Our Deaf Ways, provide critical insights into the deep, rich history and current importance of Auslan within Australian society.
• The recently adopted Deaf Flag, designed by French artist Arnaud Balard, serves as a prominent symbol of unity, recognition, and the ongoing pursuit of equal rights for Deaf people during this celebration.
• Increased public engagement with this day encourages hearing Australians to learn basic signs, fostering more inclusive environments in schools, workplaces, and daily community interactions.

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Day of Sign Languages

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Download mobile applications that teach Auslan. These apps can provide you with interactive lessons, quizzes, and games to strengthen your sign language skills while on the go.
• Explore websites dedicated to Auslan, Deaf culture, and awareness. These websites often provide valuable resources, news, articles, and information on upcoming events or gatherings.