#Japan #CODA #Shibuya #Deaflympics

Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics Support Art and Video Unveiled

In an impressive effort to boost excitement for the upcoming Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics, Shibuya City, led by Mayor Ken Hasebe, held a ceremony on August 5, 2023, to unveil completed support art and videos. This year marks a historic moment as Japan will host the event for the first time, scheduled to feature the opening and closing ceremonies as well as table tennis competitions at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium in Shibuya.

The unveiling event showcased collaborative work between artists and local students, primarily involving HIDENOBU KADO, who has roots as a CODA (Children of Deaf Adults) and the students of Harajuku Gai-En Junior High School. The artwork, designed with the global symbol of applause in sign language, intertwines the children's messages of support and their illustrations. This reflects a beautiful expression of encouragement that will soon be printed on flags throughout Sendagaya shopping district and on uniforms for volunteers at the games, spreading awareness of this important event.

As part of community initiatives, Shibuya City has been actively involved in promoting understanding of the Deaflympics through various forums, including school visits by Deaf athletes and panel displays. The event is seen as a tremendous opportunity to bridge the understanding between the hearing and Deaf communities.

The support videos and a countdown board to the Deaflympics, created by Mr. Kado, were also revealed during the event, set to be displayed on electronic boards around the city and shared across local platforms. This comprehensive multimedia approach aims to engage the local community and future participants alike, integrating them into the spirit of the Deaflympics.

Event Overview

• - Date: August 5, 2023, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
• - Location: Shibuya City Hall, 1st Floor East Entrance, 9th Floor Conference Room, 1-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya City
• - Attendees Include:

- Mayor Ken Hasebe
- Education Director Rintaro Ito
- Artist Hidenobu Kado
- Three students from Harajuku Gai-En Junior High School
Please note that attendees may change.

About Hidenobu Kado

Hidenobu Kado is a talented illustrator and artist who grew up in a household with Deaf parents. His experiences as a CODA have significantly influenced his artistic direction, allowing him to express emotions that often go uncommunicated through both spoken language and sign language. His ongoing project, "Smile Talking Hands," emphasizes the importance of conveying ideas beyond spoken words, thus advocating for richer communication methods in everyday encounters.

As the city prepares for this monumental event, the collaboration between artists, students, and local leaders continues to foster a deeper understanding of Deaf culture, while also generating enthusiasm for the games among the public. With these initiatives, the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics are shaping up to be an unforgettable occasion, celebrating athleticism and inclusivity.