The International Day of Sign Languages is being observed today to raise awareness about the importance of sign languages in ensuring the human rights of Deaf people.

The theme this year is “Declaring Deaf People’s Human Rights.” According to the United Nations, the theme calls for making the rights of Deaf people a reality in all areas of life, with a focus on access through national sign languages. The day is especially significant this year as it marks the 75th anniversary of the World Federation of the Deaf and 20 years since the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

The World Federation of the Deaf is also observing the International Week of Deaf People till 27th of September, with a focus on inclusive education, accessibility, Deaf culture and participation. The UN General Assembly declared September 23 as the International Day of Sign Languages in 2017.