NEW ZEALAND SIGN LANGUAGE WEEK

New Zealand Sign Language Week (NZSL) will run from 4 – 10 May 2009. The week promotes New Zealand Sign Language as an official language as well as raise awareness about the Deaf community.

NZSL Week is organised by Deaf Aotearoa New Zealand (formerly Deaf Association of NZ), a not-for-profit organisation, which works with government and other organisations to provide information and resources on life for Deaf New Zealanders, Deaf culture and New Zealand Sign Language. Deaf Aotearoa also represents New Zealand Deaf internationally through the World Federation of the Deaf.


Throughout NZSL there will be a range of activities, including:

· school-based educational activities (NZSL Tool Kit)
· Taster sign language classes in all areas (employment, community, etc)
· Regional/national business awards ‘NZSL in Action Award’
· And lots of promotions (billboard, website, posters, etc)

We also have cool website – have a look at www.nzsign.co.nz

Thank you for supporting Deaf Aotearoa New Zealand!

Help Expand DDW's International Network

Happy Spring from Discovering Deaf Worlds!

Everyday, we receive e-mails from individuals and organizations searching to connect with deaf communities in other countries: backpackers looking for an international host or friend, school administrations seeking advice on deaf education, non-profit organizations and humanitarians establishing themselves in a new country, and so on.

Part of DDW's mission is to serve as a bridge between deaf communities and their advocates; putting the right people in touch. While we have our roots established in 8 different countries, we are always looking for more connections. Now we'd like to turn it over to you-


Have you traveled recently and connected with a deaf community? Do you have any stories, research, or pictures to share? Do you know any deaf/hard of hearing people, CODAs, or interpreters from other countries?


Please take a moment to share your experiences with us. Your connections will help Discovering Deaf Worlds expand our international network of deaf schools, associations, and organizations.

Feel free to e-mail us or post your response on this blog.

Enjoy the warm weather!

Namaste,

Christy Smith, David Justice, and Davin Searls
The Discovering Deaf Worlds Team

Discovering Deaf Worlds is dedicated to empowering and advocating for deaf and hard of hearing communities around the world. We believe everyone deserves accessibility to language, education, and community. If you would like to learn more or make a donation, please visit www.discoveringdeafworlds.com