Deaf communities in Mexico and Peru advocate for sign language rights

The deaf community in Mexico and Peru is holding various observances throughout September to promote sign language and cultural identity. In Mexico, advocates are emphasizing that sign language is a native tongue and a core component of identity, often challenging the label of “disability” in favor of recognizing their unique linguistic and cultural heritage.

In Tacna, Peru, the Asociación de Sordos de Tacna has organized a sensitization march to increase visibility and promote the use of sign language. The event aims to bridge the gap between the deaf community and broader society. Additionally, the Universidad Nacional Jorge Basadre Grohmann continues to offer sign language training, specifically targeting future early childhood educators to improve communication with deaf children.

These activities coincide with several international observances, including International Day of Sign Languages on September 23, World Deaf Day on the last Sunday of the month, and International Day of Interpreters and Translators on September 30.