The Development of National Languages Act (國家語言發展法) was promulgated to protect and promote the development of languages used by different ethnic groups. The bill was first proposed by the Council for Cultural Affairs in 2007 and again by the Ministry of Culture in 2017.
Taiwan Sign Language (TSL) was officially included in the act in 2019 amid appeals made by the deaf community and experts in the field. The act promotes the passing on, revival and development of TSL. The act enhances TSL’s status, increases public awareness of it, and demonstrates language diversity and an inclusive society.
The world community is actively promoting sign language to support the rights of the hard of hearing and deaf, and strengthen the consensus of a diversified language culture. Against this background, the Development of National Languages Act is on the right path and in line with global trends. Yet, Taiwan is at a crossroads: In which way should we move forward?
Nurturing talent and ensuring right to language education among deaf students are complementary measures to be taken to promote TSL and improve the rights of the deaf so that the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities can be upheld and the deaf community’s language identity can be strengthened.
As a son of deaf parents, I look forward to TSL being part of international sign language exchange and cooperation, and to connect with the global sign language community.
Deaf travelers once joined me for “Spend a night at Taiwan’s Presidential Office Building,” and were acquainted with some deaf Taiwanese. Although they came from different nations, the deaf can always relate to each other as they have a lot to share in terms of life experience.
My colleagues and I have been invited to give a speech on the Development of National Languages Act at the third International Conference on Otorhinolaryngology Research and Treatment in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, next year.
I strongly believe the inclusion of TSL in the act plays an important role in the international community. Taiwan could act as a role model for other countries with this legislation, which shows Taiwan’s language diversity and vibrant culture. TSL can contribute on the world stage.
Ku Fang-huai is the founder of Signing Village.
Translated by Fion Khan
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