Japan marks International Day of Sign Languages with cultural events

To mark the International Day of Sign Languages on September 23, various events and initiatives were held to promote awareness and respect for sign language communities.

In Tokyo, Deaf film director Mika Imai held a talk session at the Tokyo Metropolitan Hall. Her recent film, ‘Yellow Child’, explores the connection between Japanese and Taiwanese sign languages. The film depicts a story set in Taipei where a Japanese Deaf child and a local Deaf person connect through sign language, highlighting how historical influences have left a legacy of Japanese Sign Language in Taiwan. Imai emphasizes the importance of creating films where both hearing and Deaf individuals can participate and enjoy together.

In Setouchi, Okayama Prefecture, local landmarks including Yokeiji Temple and the Murata Manufacturing building were illuminated with blue lights. This blue light-up initiative, which began this year, aims to symbolize world peace and foster unity between the Deaf and hearing communities. The International Day of Sign Languages was established by a United Nations resolution to recognize sign languages as equal to spoken languages and to promote the human rights of Deaf people.