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Celebrating unsung heroes of sign language on International Day of Sign Languages


Hyderabad: On September 23, the world observed the International Day of Sign Languages, a day dedicated to recognising the linguistic identity and cultural rights of the deaf community.

This year, attention is being drawn to the unsung everyday heroes who use sign language to make ordinary spaces more inclusive, from cafes and markets to workplaces, hospitals, courts and government offices.

Everyday sign language heroes

Across Hyderabad and India, individuals and organisations are taking concrete steps to integrate sign language into everyday public life.

Cafes and shops are increasingly training staff in Indian Sign Language (ISL) to communicate with deaf customers, while workplaces are providing sign language training to ensure meetings and presentations are accessible.

Sign language interpreters are also playing a critical role in institutions that impact public welfare.

Hospitals now often have trained ISL interpreters on call, allowing patients to communicate effectively with medical staff.

Courts and government offices are incorporating interpreters to ensure that deaf citizens can exercise their legal rights without barriers.

Inclusive communication

Sunita Reddy, a manager at a popular Hyderabad café, shared her experience: “We started basic ISL training for our staff after a customer requested it. Now, not only are deaf customers more comfortable, but other staff members feel more confident in inclusive communication.”

Significance of the day

The International Day of Sign Languages, established by the United Nations in 2017, commemorates the founding of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) in 1951.

The day emphasises that the recognition and use of sign languages are essential for the full realisation of human rights for Deaf individuals.

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The day serves to:

• Raise awareness about the importance of sign languages.

• Promote linguistic identity and cultural diversity.

• Advocate for equal rights and access in education, employment, and public services.

• Encourage societal inclusion through practical integration of sign languages.

Global celebrations and themes

Each year, the International Day of Sign Languages carries a theme. The 2025 theme, ‘No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights,’ highlights the connection between sign language recognition and human rights (wfdeaf.org).

Celebrations often include public events, educational programs, media campaigns and workshops to teach sign language to the broader public, fostering greater societal awareness.

Sign language in India

Indian Sign Language has gained recognition over recent years.

The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) offers courses and resources to promote ISL, supporting both the deaf community and allies seeking to learn the language (islrtc.nic.in).

Local initiatives showcase practical inclusion. During Telangana’s Independence Day celebrations in Karimnagar, officials performed the national anthem in ISL to raise awareness and highlight accessibility in public spaces.

Expert perspectives

Dr Ramesh Kumar, linguist specialising in sign languages, speaking to NewsMeter, said, “Sign languages are fully developed languages with their own grammar and syntax. Supporting interpreters and everyday users in public spaces ensures that the deaf community is not excluded from civic and social life.”

Anjali Verma, a deaf rights advocate, added, “Everyday heroes, shopkeepers, workplace managers, interpreters play a vital role in translating inclusion into action. Their efforts transform ordinary spaces into environments where deaf individuals can fully participate.”

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How to become everyday sign language heroes

Citizens can contribute by:

• Learning basic ISL phrases.

• Supporting businesses that incorporate sign language training.

• Volunteering with organisations that provide sign language services.

• Promoting awareness through social media and local events.

As Hyderabad observes the International Day of Sign Languages, the spotlight is on those who quietly make inclusion a reality in everyday life.

These everyday heroes, from café staff and shopkeepers to interpreters in hospitals, courts, and government offices, demonstrate that sign language is not only a tool for communication but a bridge to equality. Celebrating these efforts alongside the day’s broader mission reinforces the principle that linguistic diversity and accessibility are essential to a just society.


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