New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) Week begins today, and raises awareness about New Zealand's Deaf community and the contribution and colour NZSL brings.
NZSL is the natural language of Deaf New Zealanders, as it reflects the country's culture and includes signs for Maori terminology and concepts unique to New Zealand. As an official New Zealand language, NZSL is used daily by more than 24,000 New Zealanders. NZSL uses a combination of hand shapes, facial expressions and body movements to convey meaning, and has its own structure and grammar that is different from English.
There are many ways the public can get involved during New Zealand Sign Language Week. Deaf Aotearoa will be hosting over 600 free 45 minute NZSL Taster Classes around the country for schools, businesses and healthcare providers. This gives more people an opportunity to get a taste of NZSL and learn skills that will help them communicate with Deaf New Zealanders.
On the NZSL Week website, there is an opportunity to win spot prizes by learning NZSL and completing the 7 Signs in 7 Days Challenge. There will also be special events run by Deaf Aotearoa throughout the country, and the Week officially concludes with the NZSL in Action Awards Gala Dinner celebrating the contribution made by businesses, organisations, schools and individuals in supporting both NZSL and the New Zealand Deaf community.
To find out more, sign up for a NZSL Taster Class, participate in 7 Signs in 7 Days, or learn about New Zealand Sign Language and find events near you, visit www.nzslweek.org.nz
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