Better Together Language Diversity | Western Cape Government

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Better Together Language Diversity

6 September 2012
The Western Cape Government is committed to raising awareness of the needs of the deaf community, instilling a culture of social tolerance and acceptance and promoting South African Sign Language.

On 6 and 7 September 2012, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport will be hosting two separate events in celebration of Deaf Awareness Week which takes place in the first week of September every year. The week is intended to raise public awareness of deaf people, their accomplishments and the challenges they face.

Community members of Hawston and surrounding areas will participate in a South African Sign Language awareness event at the Thusong mobile centre in Hawston, followed by a book club event at the public library in Zwelihle. Information on training in basic and advanced South African Sign Language will be available, as well as contact details of deaf organisations and associations.

Ms Bianca Meyer of the Language Services directorate says that deaf people are a minority group in a hearing world. "A great part of their existence is therefore in interaction with hearing people. They see themselves a part of a diverse community where other languages and cultures meet and where every group is entitled to full human rights," she said.

The department strives to create awareness about deaf people and improve its partnership with the deaf community by promoting South African Sign Language.

Media Enquiries:
Bianca Meyer
Language Services
Tel: 021 483 9681
E-mail: Bianca.Meyer@westerncape.gov.za

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