Shillong, Sep 23:Over 100 participants from across the state converged at the Bethany Society, Laitumkhrah here to kickstart the International Week of the Deaf on the theme, ‘No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights.’
The celebration is being organised by the Meghalaya Deaf Association (MDA) in collaboration with the office of the Commissioner for person with Disabilities from September 20 to 27,
The aim of the programme is to raise awareness about the importance of sign language in promoting inclusivity, nurturing skills and talents, accessibility, human rights and recognition.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Deputy Commissioner for Person with Disabilities Bridget Warshong, Director of Don Bosco Technical School Rev. Fr. Saji Stephen as guests.
The week-long activities will feature various events including Quiz, Drawing, open Carrom and open ISL Joke competitions. All the activities are designed for persons with speech and hearing impairment.
An open ISL storytelling competition is also being scheduled aimed at creating awareness and boost sign language learner and also highlighting the diverse and rich cultural heritage of the community and the crucial role of sign language in ensuring equal access to human rights for deaf individuals worldwide.
MDA General Secretary Johnkit Maring in his speech said, “We want society to see our strength, our culture and what we bring to the world. We want to be treated with respect and not to feel sorry for us “.
The guests expressed encouraged other deaf individuals and students, as well as the society to join hands to break down barriers and promote inclusivity.
