#Japan #Hino #Hino City #Deaflympics #Sign Language

Celebrating Sign Language Awareness

Hino City is gearing up for an exciting event series to promote sign language awareness as part of the lead-up to the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics. In celebration of International Sign Language Day, Hino will be hosting a panel exhibition from September 19 to 26, culminating in the 6th Hino Sign Language Festival on September 28. This initiative is aimed at raising awareness about the cultural and linguistic importance of sign language and ensuring that the rights of deaf individuals are fully recognized.

International Sign Language Day Panel Exhibition

Held annually on September 23, International Sign Language Day serves to educate the community about the significance of sign language. The panel exhibition aims to communicate that sign language holds equal status with spoken languages and to advocate for the complete protection of the rights of deaf individuals. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about engaging effectively with individuals who are hard of hearing, and simple sign language will also be introduced.

In solidarity with global efforts to promote sign language awareness, the exhibition will display blue lights, a color that symbolizes International Sign Language Day, creating a visually impactful backdrop.

Event Details:

• - Dates: September 19–26 (during business hours), and September 28 (during Sign Language Festival hours)
• - Venue: Hino City Hall (1st floor) from September 19–26, and Nanao Community Hall on September 28.

Hino Sign Language Festival

Continuing the effort to broaden understanding and appreciation for sign language, the Hino Sign Language Festival is an event organized by the Hino City Association of the Hearing Impaired in conjunction with the Hino Sign Language Circle. This year, the festival's theme is "Let's Get Excited for the Deaflympics!" With prominent sign language entertainers, such as Yasuto Okumura and Eri Nasu, guests can look forward to inspiring talks and engaging activities.

The featured program includes a memorial lecture titled “Ahead of the Deaflympics! A Variety Talk Show.” Additionally, participants can join in the fun with the event's interactive dance segment "Let's Dance Together! Shuwa Shuwa☆Deaflympics!"

Event Details:

• - Date: September 28, from 1:00 PM to 3:40 PM (doors open at 12:30 PM)
• - Venue: Nanao Community Hall

These events present an unparalleled opportunity for locals to come together, learn about deaf culture, and partake in an enriching experience that emphasizes inclusion and appreciation for the diverse modes of communication.

With these initiatives, Hino City not only highlights the importance of sign language but also paves the way for an incredible buildup to the Deaflympics, reinforcing community support and unity. Join us in celebrating and supporting this vibrant form of expression as we create a more inclusive society for everyone!