On 18th December 2024, an awareness campaign advocating for the recognition of sign language as an official language and the rights of individuals with hearing impairments was held at Kilinochchi Green Park, organized by the Tharmam Centre, Kilinochchi, Sri Lanka in collaboration with Centre for Gender Equity and Equality (CGEE), University of Jaffna (UoJ) and Sri Lanka Tamil Association of the Deaf, the event carried the theme: “Uniting Voices for Equality: 1st Nationwide Campaign for Deaf People’s Rights in Kilinochchi.” The campaign aimed to shed light on the struggles faced by deaf individuals and their call for systemic reforms, particularly the need for laws recognizing sign language and accessible government institutions.
The event commenced with a vibrant procession from Kilinochchi Public Grounds to Green Park. Participants carried banners with powerful messages such as “Listen to the hands that speak” and “Teach sign language to parents and family members of deaf children,” symbolizing the urgency of their cause. The dignitaries at the event included the Chief Guest, Mr. Nagalingam Vethanayagam, Governor of the Northern Province, the Special Guest, Prof. Shivany Shanmugathas, Director of the Centre for Gender Equity and Equality (CGEE), University of Jaffna, and Dr. (Mrs.) Dilogini Sangarathas, Chairperson of the Education and Research Committee, CGEE, UoJ, as the Guest of Honour and other members from CGEE, UoJ. Their presence emphasized institutional support for the movement and reinforced the importance of collaboration in addressing these issues.
Prof. Shivany Shanmugathas delivered a heartfelt reading of a petition highlighting the urgent needs of the deaf and vision-impaired community, including the legal recognition of sign language and accessible pathways to government institutions. This petition, representing the collective voice of the participants, was handed over to the Governor, who pledged to submit it to His Excellency President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The symbolic handover reflected the community’s determination to secure their rights and advocate for systemic change. In his address, the Governor lauded the participants for their courage and commitment, traveling from across the country to amplify their voices. He also emphasized the importance of sign language interpreters in government offices, underscoring their role in fostering inclusivity and ensuring accessible governance.
The programme featured a powerful drama and personal testimonials from deaf individuals from across Sri Lanka, vividly portraying the challenges they face due to systemic barriers and social discrimination. These narratives deeply resonated with the audience, highlighting the pressing need for practical solutions to their struggles. The founder of the Tharmam Centre, along with other notable participants, reiterated the campaign’s mission to establish sign language as a human right and emphasized the value of collaborative efforts in promoting accessibility and equality.
Finally, the event’s multifaceted approach, combining advocacy, artistic expression, and personal stories, served as a strong platform for advancing the rights of people with disabilities and inspiring meaningful action.
