Celebrating Deaf culture
It is again that time of the year when people around the world celebrate Deaf Awareness Week, also called International Week of the Deaf (IWD).
The week is a celebration of the achievements of the deaf community and the rich world of deaf culture.
“Deaf people all over the world view themselves as belonging to a linguistic minority with its own culture,” says Trudie Visser from DeafSA.
“Deaf culture has its own history, shared values, social norms, customs and technology which are transferred from generation to generation.”
Deaf Awareness Week is celebrated by national and regional associations of the Deaf, local communities and individuals worldwide.
During the last full week of September, the rights of Deaf people are promoted through activities such as conferences, workshops and sign language competitions.
The purpose of week is to increase public awareness of deaf issues, people and culture.
Activities and events throughout Deaf Awareness Week encourage individuals to come together as a community for both educational events and celebrations.
