International (MNN) — Next week is International Week of Deaf People. It also comes at the end of National Deaf Awareness Month in the United States.
Why is Deaf awareness so crucial? Many might assume that sign languages are universally recognized and supported, but the reality is different. In fact, nearly 80% of countries do not officially recognize their local sign language as a national language.
(Photo courtesy of DOOR International)
Rob Myers, President and CEO of DOOR International, highlights additional barriers faced by the Deaf community.
“There are at least 30 countries around the world that I’m aware of where Deaf people still are not allowed to drive – everywhere from Mexico to Vietnam to Egypt.”
He adds, “In Mexico, if you’re a Deaf person, you’re also not allowed to buy a house unless a hearing person will cosign the loan for you.”
Barriers for the Deaf also make it difficult for them to engage with Scripture.
“Many Deaf people, because they have very little access to Deaf education, they have challenges with access to reading,” explains Myers. “So most people who would typically think, ‘I have a Deaf colleague. I’ll just give them a written Bible.’
“For many Deaf people around the world, that doesn’t give them Scripture access. They need access to the Bible in Sign Language.”
For International Week of Deaf People, pray for Gospel opportunities among Deaf communities.
Deaf South Sudanese gather in community. (Photo courtesy of DOOR International)
Also, Myers encourages, “Share this information! Share it on social media platforms, share it in person with other people. This is something that God is teaching you that’s a great way to help others to engage and learn about what God’s doing in the Great Commission.”
Connect with DOOR International here!
Header photo of a young student practicing sign language. (Photo courtesy of Assad Tanoli/Unsplash)
