New Zealand Sign Language Week returning to raise awareness of users

Deaf Aotearoa’s chief executive Lachlan Keating says there’s a “dearth of [New Zealand Sign Language] interpreters”.

With around 80 to 100 active interpreters nationwide, Mr Keating says: “The demand for interpreters isn’t being met

“That number has been pretty static. There’s only a handful of graduates coming through every three years.”

The lack is particularly evident in the education system, from pre-school through to college.

He said the curriculum does not accommodate sign language users.

“They need to be accessing the curriculum at those levels to ensure that deaf people can achieve at the same levels as their hearing peers.”

Not having enough interpreted, state-funded courses also makes it challenging to pursue tertiary education as “more deaf people are coming through with higher aspirations for themselves”.

Mr Keating hopes NZ Sign Language Week will mean “increased awareness for sign language users, especially deaf users, to get the opportunities they need”.

NZSL Week first kicked off in 2007. Having been involved with all 12 of them so far, Mr Keating says the event gets bigger every year.

In 2007, Deaf Aotearoa held around 80 sign language taster classes during May. This year, they’re expecting 700.

Kiwi businesses have also been getting involved organically, which Mr Keating appreciates.

“When people who have no reason to care start caring, that’s when you know your message is getting through.”

How to get involved with New Zealand Sign Language Week, 6 – 12 May.

Taster classes for schools and organisations

Deaf Aotearoa provides a free 45-minute class for schools or for organisations. Classes take up to 20 people.
When: Throughout May

“Talk to the hand” beer launch

Get a taste of NZSL and a new hoppy beer at Garage Project in Kingsland. Members of Auckland Deaf Society will be running 15-minute crash courses throughout the afternoon.

When: 12 May
Where: Garage Project, Kingsland

More events will be uploaded here.