Sign Language Week – May 10, 2027

Expected Sign Language Week Deals

As a Cause holiday, Sign Language Week focuses on advocacy and education rather than commercial deals. Organizations like Deaf Aotearoa and the New Zealand Sign Language Board often host fundraising events, workshops, and free introductory classes to promote understanding and learning. Look for opportunities to donate to these vital groups or participate in awareness campaigns. Local community centers and educational institutions may offer discounted or free NZSL lessons during the week. We encourage supporting initiatives that foster inclusivity and provide resources for the deaf community. We will update this page with confirmed live events and educational opportunities as May approaches.

History of Sign Language Week

Although New Zealand Sign Language Week is a chance for people to connect and celebrate a rich history and culture, the road to get to this point was not smooth. In New Zealand, sign language was only recognized as an official language in 2006, and before that, those who created and used the language faced discrimination and gatekeeping.

The first known appearance of sign language in New Zealand matched the arrival of early British immigrants in 1868. A woman named Dorcas Mitchell was the first known teacher of sign language in the country and had taught a total of 44 pupils by 1877. She taught her pupils British Sign Language. In 1878 the first school for deaf children was opened and Mitchell put her name forward for the role of principal but was not chosen in favor of a man who advocated for deaf children to be taught orally without sign language. The new principal did not even consider admitting children who communicated by signing and so the children of the school were forced to sign in secret. This led to an entire generation of children developing sign language in secret without any adult interference.

Years later, this sign language was recognized as a full-fledged language in 2006. It was named the New Zealand Sign Language and was once again instituted in schools. A year later, the first Sign Language Week took place, containing educational and awareness events.

It was only after decades of advocating and fighting for their right to speak and be listened to that those who used sign language were finally recognized and respected as equal members of society. There are still problems and a lack of awareness surrounding sign language and hearing impairments. The road is only still being paved and we need to do our best to ensure it’s a smooth one.