This week marks the United Nations International Week of Deaf People. A week to celebrate Deaf identity, culture and rights. This year’s theme is “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights.” It carries a powerful message: true inclusion is not possible unless Deaf people can fully access and use their own languages – sign languages.
1. Sign up for a class! American Sign Language (ASL), Deaf and Hearing, offers Signing Naturally classes here. It is essential to attend classes led by a person who is officially trained in ASL; better yet, when your instructor identifies as part of the Deaf Community, you also get to learn more about Deaf Culture.
2. Did you know that over 150,000 Albertans struggle with hearing loss? According to Deaf and Hear Alberta's blogger Rosemary, in a September 2, 2025, blog post , a University of Calgary study suggests that hearing loss may be related to one's overall health. Link to the study
3. Want to test your hearing at home? Try a smartphone app, such as ShoeBox Online, which can help test your hearing. Try it at home using your phone. QR code below.
4. Celebrate! Deaf and Hear weekly September 23rd post says The World Federation of the Deaf is launching 3 activities to celebrate:
- NEW – Global Deaf Flag Raising in public spaces to celebrate Deaf people and promote the visibility, recognition, and cultural heritage of Deaf communities.
- Global Leaders Challenge inspires global leaders to show their support for Deaf communities by signing a key message in their national sign language.
- Shine a Blue Light on Sign Language invites all public places to be spotlighted in blue light."
And want to be more welcoming to people who are Deaf and hard of hearing?
Learn more by visiting https://deafandhearalberta.ca/
Many thanks to Deaf and Hear for the excellent information and resources!
The 2025 Connections fundraising gala is coming up on Saturday, November 1st, 2025
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