Equal Opportunities for Deaf people

 

4.1.We commit to promoting the inclusion of deaf people in society through employment. Employment of deaf people is a cornerstone of implementing the social model highlighted in the Sustainable Development Goals and the CRPD. Deaf people must be given the opportunity to thrive in an accessible and inclusive working environment, which is possible through sign languages to reach their full potential and maximise their participation in and contribution to society.

4.2.We commit to funding, promoting and encouraging the professionalisation and full access to qualified and accredited sign languages interpreters and sign language translators to guarantee the inclusion and participation of deaf people in society. Sign language interpreting training programs need to be established and developed with the leadership of these programs undertaken by deaf persons. Government funded professional sign language interpreting services must be made available for deaf people in all areas of life.

4.3.We note that deaf women are under-represented and face double discrimination due to their gender and disability intersectionality. Specific measures must be implemented to safeguard gender equality, diversity and equal participation in society and in decision-making processes for all deaf people.

4.4.We commit to making our health services and health information, including sexual and reproductive health care, health prevention programmes including psychiatric care and psychotherapy accessible in the national sign language. Equal access to health care is crucial for deaf people if they are to thrive as human beings and to ensure everyone’s life is respected, protected and dignified.

WFD Charter on Sign Language Rights for All
Source: http://wfdeaf.org/charter/