This year, the Deaf flag has been raised around the world to celebrate the International Day of Sign Language on September 23. The date honors the founding of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD). Schools, universities, towns, and even the British and New Zealand parliaments joined in to show support and raise awareness. The bright flag represents Deaf people, Deaf culture, and the fight for Deaf rights. Communities say raising it is a way to welcome Deaf people and show that sign language and Deaf culture matter. The flag was created by Arnaud Balard, a French DeafBlind artist. It was first adopted in 2014 by the French National Federation of the Deaf (FNSF) and has since spread worldwide. The design shows two hands on a dark blue background, symbolizing sign language and unity. Balard says it represents all members of the Deaf community - Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and late-deafened people - coming together.

Rwandans are calling for Rwandan Sign Language (RSL) to be officially recognized. The campaign follows the theme “No Human Rights without Sign Language Rights” from the International Week of Deaf People. Advocates say it’s not just about language - it’s about equal human rights. The UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities noted that Rwandan Sign Language is still not officially recognized by law. Deaf leaders are urging the government to change that. Without recognition, many Deaf people face serious communication barriers in daily life. Official recognition of RSL would allow fair access to courts, healthcare, and education. It would also make it possible to teach RSL in schools, helping both Deaf and hearing students learn to communicate. Many Deaf Rwandans are thankful that society is becoming more inclusive. They remember when Deaf people had few rights and were often isolated. Sign language has opened new opportunities, but only a small number of people can use it. Many still face challenges in getting information and equal treatment. Accepting RSL as an official language would also help other areas of life. It would create more jobs for interpreters and improve training. Rwanda’s hospitals, schools, workplaces, and news stations all need interpreters to make vital information accessible to everyone.