World Deaf Day 2023 – Celebrate the Unique Culture of Deaf Communities

World Deaf Day is celebrated every year on the last Sunday of September. This year, it will fall on September 24^th. It is a global holiday that raises awareness about the issues and challenges faced by the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

Another goal of World Deaf Day 2023 is to highlight the unique experiences of deaf people from different cultures around the world. On this special day, various events are held to recognize the important contribution of deaf people to society and to remind everyone that deafness is not a disability but a different way of experiencing the world.   

World Deaf Day 2023 Highlights

Objectives of World Deaf Day

The objective of World Deaf Day is to bring attention to the issues faced by the deaf community in their daily lives. They have to face challenges such as limited access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. This day also highlights the significance of sign language as a means of communication.

Another reason to celebrate World Deaf Day is that it provides an opportunity for people around the world to come together to recognize the value and contributions of the deaf community. It is also a day to empower deaf individuals to live full and independent lives.

History of World Deaf Day

The first World Deaf Day was celebrated in 1958 by the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD). It is an international NGO that works to promote the rights of deaf people and improve the quality of their life.

According to multiple sources, World Deaf Day is celebrated in memory of Granville Richard Seymour Redmond. He was born in 1871 in Philadelphia and become deaf at a very young age. Despite being deaf, he learned painting, pantomime and drawing at the renowned California School of Design. By 1905, he became famous as a prolific colorist and landscape painter.

In 2023, World Deaf Day will be especially important because it will mark the 72^nd anniversary of the WFD.

Ways to Observe World Deaf Day

There are many ways to observe this important day. A few of them are as follows.

1. Learn sign language – One of the best ways to show your support to the deaf community is to learn sign language. With the help of this language, you will be able to effectively communicate with deaf people. You can take online classes or even hire a private to learn sign language.
2. Attend a deaf culture event – You can find various deaf cultural events being organized on World Deaf Day. Attending these functions is a great way to learn more about the deaf community and show your support for their culture.
3. Educate others – You can use World Deaf Day as an opportunity to educate others about the deaf community. Consider hosting a presentation at your workplace or sharing information on social media about the challenges faced by deaf people around the world. 
4. Support deaf-owned businesses: There are many deaf entrepreneurs working hard to excel in the field of business. By supporting their business, you can empower the entire deaf community to succeed.
5. Watch a movie or read a book about the deaf community – You can find multiple movies and books that offer insight into the lives of deaf individuals. These books and movies can be a great way to gain a better understanding of the challenges deaf people face.

other special Days in September

World Deaf Day 2023 Theme – Ear and Hearing Care for All

The theme of World Deaf Day 2023 is “Ear and Hearing Care for All”. The aim of this theme is to ensure that everyone has access to the aid and care they need to maintain healthy hearing. In the previous year, the theme was “To hear for life, listen with care!”

Some Facts and Trivia about Deaf People around the Globe

Here are some less-known facts about deaf people that we all should know.

1. According to a report by World Health Organization (WHO), there are more than 1.5 billion people currently living with hearing problems. This is around 20% of the global population.
2. There are various factors that can cause deafness such as genetics, illness, infections, injuries, and exposure to loud noises.
3. Cochlear implants are devices that can provide deaf people with a sense of sound. They work by bypassing damaged parts of the inner ear and sending signals directly to the brain.
4. American Sign Language (ASL) is the 3^rd most commonly used language in the United States after English and Spanish.
5. Most of the deaf people rely on body language and visual cues to communicate with others.
6. Some deaf people also prefer lip reading. However, it is a difficult and imperfect method of communication.
7. Many deaf people enjoy participating in sports like volleyball, basketball, athletics, etc.
8. Ludwig van Beethoven was a famous German composer who became completely deaf at the age of 44 years.
9. Marlee Matlin is a partially deaf actress. She is the recipient of multiple awards such as the Golden Globe Award, Academy Award, etc.
10. Deaf culture has its unique art, literature, and traditions.

International Day of Sign Languages

Frequently Asked Questions