National Sign Day

Young woman signing the word 'love' with her hands, wearing a colorful outfit and surrounded by vibrant sign language posters.. — National sign day illustration

Welcome to the fascinating world of National Sign Day! This delightful day celebrates the importance and beauty of sign language. Get ready to dive into a whirlwind of hand gestures and communication, as we explore the internet history of this special day.

When is Sign Day?

It's national sign day on the 1st February.

The Origin of National Sign Day:

National Sign Day may not have a specific origin story, but its purpose remains clear: to promote awareness and appreciation for sign language. Sign language is a visual means of communication used by Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals to express themselves. It's an essential and vibrant part of Deaf culture.

Many people mistakenly believe that sign language is a universal language, but in reality, each country has its own unique sign language. American Sign Language (ASL) is the most widely used sign language in the United States. ASL originated in the early 19th century and has evolved over time, just like any other living language.

How to Celebrate National Sign Day:

Celebrating National Sign Day is both enjoyable and educational. Here are a few ideas to help you join the celebration:

Learn basic sign language: Take time to learn some basic ASL signs. You can find numerous online resources and videos that make learning sign language fun and engaging.
Support Deaf artists and creators: Follow and promote Deaf artists, musicians, and content creators on social media platforms. Show your love and appreciation for their talent and unique perspectives.
Advocate for accessibility: Use National Sign Day as an opportunity to educate others about the importance of providing accessibility options for the Deaf community. Whether it's advocating for closed captioning or creating inclusive environments, every effort makes a difference.
Share your love: Take a moment to express your gratitude and admiration for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in your life. Celebrate their accomplishments and the resilience they exhibit every day.

Fun Fact:

Did you know that sign languages have regional dialects just like spoken languages? Yes, that's right! Even within a single country, different regions may have their own unique signs and variations. It's like a secret code for each community.

History behind the term 'Sign'

12th century

Origin of the term 'sign'

The term 'sign' originates from the Latin word 'signum,' which means a mark, indication, or signal. In the 12th century, this term was used to refer to a distinctive symbol or mark that conveyed a specific message or meaning.

15th century

Use of signs for commercial purposes

In the 15th century, signs became widely used for commercial purposes. Shopkeepers started to display signs outside their establishments to attract customers and distinguish their businesses from others. These signs were typically handcrafted and depicted symbols or images related to the products or services offered.

17th century

Inn signs and literacy

During the 17th century, inns and taverns used signs to identify themselves to travelers who often could not read or write. Inn signs became crucial in towns and villages as they helped illiterate or non-local visitors find a place to rest and refresh themselves. These signs often featured pictorial representations of animals, objects, or events to aid recognition.

19th century

Signs in the age of industrialization

The 19th century saw a significant increase in the use of signs due to rapid urbanization and industrialization. Signs became more prevalent as businesses prospered, and mass-produced signs made of metal, glass, or wood replaced the handcrafted ones. This period also saw the introduction of neon signs, which added a vibrant and eye-catching element to urban landscapes.

20th century

Signage in modern times

In the 20th century, signs became an integral part of modern advertising and branding. With advancements in printing technology and design, signs evolved from simple symbols to dynamic billboards, digital displays, and interactive signs. Additionally, the concept of road signs developed for guiding and regulating traffic, further emphasizing the significance and importance of signs in our daily lives.