What Does Sign Language Mean to You?

People share what sign language means to them and how it has shaped their lives, identity and connections.

For many Deaf people, sign language is much more than a way to communicate. It can be a part of their identity, culture, relationships, education and everyday life.

To mark the International Day of Sign Languages on September 23, we asked people a simple question:

What does sign language mean to you?

In this video, people share their personal experiences and talk about how sign language has affected their lives.

For some, it is the language that helps them connect with family and friends. For others, it has helped them express themselves, learn, build relationships and feel connected to the Deaf community.

Every person has a different story, but the message is the same: sign language matters.

The International Day of Sign Languages is celebrated every year on September 23 as part of the International Week of Deaf People. The 2026 theme is “Declaring Deaf People’s Human Rights,” highlighting the importance of access to national sign languages for Deaf people.

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