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Why I learnt Sign Language: Helen Keller Day


How many of you have taken the time to learn about the sign language?

Of course, you may think “Why on earth should I learn sign language?”

Of what use is it to me? Especially since I have no one close to me who is deafmute or hearing impaired.

You should know one thing.

It doesn’t matter. My mom says something all the time- no knowledge is lost. Things we have all learnt come back to us one way or the other.

Sometime in January, I took a course on sign language (ASL)  and got a certificate. It seemed difficult that someone could understand the gestures, but these things take time.





I learnt sign language because there was a girl who approached me during the GT Bank annual autism program last year and needed to find out something. I was so lost on what to do and then she typed on her phone “I can’t hear”

I was mortified that I couldn’t understand. I had to search for someone who could communicate effectively with her.

I didn’t know if she was born that way but things happen. Remember that disability can happen to anyone. Not that I pray for it but what if I am put in a similar situation? 

The Deaf community is very large, and learning sign language will allow you to interact with them. Honestly, it makes you a better person.

By learning sign language, it raises your awareness about the challenges the deaf community has to face daily. 

Imagine if you have a friend who is deaf-mute, when you learn sign language, it breaks the communication barrier and allows you to be a better friend, colleague, lover, and family member to deaf people around you. 

Even if you don’t become proficient in it, it’s the effort that goes a long way.

Helen Adams Keller was an American disability rights advocate and political activist. At 19 months, She had lost her sight and hearing after an illness. With the help of her family, she was able to learn over 60 home sign languages and could distinguish people by the vibration of their footsteps.

I’m pretty sure her family had also learnt home sign language. That’s support right there! 

Tell me, are you going to be more intentional about other people’s needs and challenges? Remember this is also core for us to achieve that inclusive world. 





Comments

  1. VictorJuly 3, 2023 at 12:38 PM

    So inspiring. One of these days, I should visit a community of people who are hearing impaired and enjoy their companionship

    ReplyDelete

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