- Accessibility
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International Day of Sign Languages: Inclusion in Action at Remtek Workplace
Every 23 September the world marks the International Day of Sign Languages.
A date proclaimed by the United Nations to raise awareness about the value of sign languages in ensuring full human rights for people who are deaf. Sign languages are not optional extras. They are central to access, identity and culture.
This year the day coincides with two wider celebrations: International Week of Happiness at Work and International Week of the Deaf. The overlap is a reminder that true workplace happiness is not about perks like free coffee or casual Fridays. It is about creating environments where every person feels able to participate fully, without barriers to communication or contribution.
At Remtek Workplace, Whitney and Chris recently visited The Deaf Village Northwest, where we had the opportunity to learn how to sign our names, “Remtek Workplace”, and even “Happy Sign Language Day”. The visit was a powerful reminder that happiness at work comes from inclusion, accessibility and the chance for everyone to thrive.
What the International Day of Sign Languages Means
- It highlights linguistic identity and cultural diversity of Deaf people globally. Sign languages are natural, full languages with their own grammar, syntax and expressiveness.
- It reminds us that access to information, services, education, work and social life depends on inclusion of sign languages. Without sign language access, many deaf or hard of hearing individuals are excluded in critical areas.
- It calls on organisations to adopt policies, tools and practices that support sign language access including interpreters, remote video services, awareness training and legal recognition.
How Remtek Workplace Supports Inclusion
Assistive Technology and Access Services
- We provide tools and infrastructure that enable communication access, including video relay, and remote interpreting so that sign language users can engage without barriers.
- We integrate captioning and subtitling in meetings and digital content.
Training and Awareness
- We run Deaf awareness and sign language sensitivity sessions.
- We offer short workshops so hearing staff can learn basic signs and build confidence in inclusive communication.
Policy and Culture
- Workplace policies recognise sign language access as a right.
- We assess tools, communications and premises to ensure they are fully accessible.
Partnerships and Feedback
- We collaborate with Deaf organisations such as The Deaf Village Sign Solutions and FM Hearing Systems to learn and improve.
- We gather feedback from Deaf staff and visitors to refine our approach.
Why It Matters
Fairness and Equality
Deaf colleagues should never be disadvantaged in interviews, meetings or opportunities.
Engagement and Productivity
People who can communicate fully are more confident and effective.
Reputation and Compliance
Meeting accessibility standards is both a legal duty and a reflection of our values.
Cultural Richness
Inclusion of sign languages strengthens workplace culture and creativity.
International Day of Sign Languages is more than an awareness day.
It is about making inclusion tangible in workplaces, through real changes in culture, training and technology. At Remtek Workplace, our visit to The Deaf Village reinforced why this matters. Every deaf or sign language using colleague deserves to communicate, contribute and belong without friction.
True workplace happiness is built on accessibility and inclusion. That is what we celebrate today.
