In honour of International Day of Sign Languages & International Week of Deaf People
Date: September 23, 2025
Location: Parliament Hill, Ottawa, ON
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM EST
About the Event
On September 23, 2025, the Canadian Association of the Deaf – Association des Sourds du Canada (CAD-ASC) will host a Deaf Flag Raising ceremony at Parliament Hill in Ottawa. Members of the Deaf community, allies, and supporters will gather to celebrate the International Day of Sign Languages (IDSL) and the International Week of Deaf People (IWDP).
The Deaf flag will serve as a powerful symbol of unity, identity, and recognition for Deaf people worldwide. Raising the flag at Parliament Hill will represent an important moment of visibility — affirming the culture, language, and human rights of Deaf people in Canada and around the globe.
Why September 23?
This date marks the official recognition of the International Day of Sign Languages, proclaimed by the United Nations in 2017 after years of advocacy led by the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD).
It also coincides with the International Week of Deaf People, a global movement established by the WFD in 1958. This annual celebration will highlight Deaf communities, promote linguistic and cultural diversity, and advocate for equality.
What is Happening at the Ceremony?
The one-hour ceremony will feature:
- The raising of the Deaf Flag at Parliament Hill.
- Speeches from community leaders and advocates highlighting the importance of sign languages and Deaf culture.
- A collective celebration with Deaf individuals, allies, families, and organizations showing their support.
- Opportunities for photos to capture this historic and meaningful event.
Why It Matters
The Deaf Flag Raising will be more than just a symbolic gesture — it will stand as a statement of visibility, pride, and advocacy. By raising the flag on Parliament Hill, the heart of Canadian democracy, the Deaf community will reaffirm its rightful place in shaping a more inclusive society where sign languages and Deaf culture are recognized, respected, and celebrated.
Photo Highlights
Throughout the event, many powerful moments will be captured — the Deaf flag waving proudly against the sky, community members celebrating together, and the unity of Deaf and hearing allies standing side by side. See some of our pictures that were taken in 2024.
Gallery of Deaf Flag Raising 2024
Events in Other Provinces by Other Organizations
These flyers and posters from across Canada highlight events organized and hosted by other organizations in various provinces, showcasing the diverse celebrations happening nationwide.
Note: Not all flyers and posters are bilingual