This week, New Zealand shines a spotlight on its own Sign Language (NZSL), one of the country’s three official languages.
New Zealand Sign Language Week, running from May 6-12, 2024, is a special time for the Deaf community to share their culture and language, and to promote understanding and inclusion across the country.
The celebration of NZSL began in 2007, following its recognition as an official language in 2006. This milestone was achieved thanks to the persistent efforts of advocates like Member of Parliament Ruth Dyson, who worked tirelessly on behalf of the Deaf community.
Throughout the week, various activities are planned to increase awareness and appreciation of NZSL. Louise Upston, the Minister for Disability Issues, encourages all New Zealanders to try using NZSL, stating that about 23,000 New Zealanders use it as their main form of communication.
One of the highlights of this year’s NZSL Week was a unique flight by Air New Zealand. On a flight from Auckland to Wellington, the airline staff used NZSL to communicate with passengers. They signed everything from safety instructions to the in-flight service announcements. Passengers also had the chance to learn some NZSL, with cards illustrating signs for words like “water,” “cookie,” and “lolly” placed on their seats.
This initiative by Air New Zealand shows how NZSL can be used in everyday situations, even at 35,000 feet in the air!
OMG adorable she must be tiny
make sure you dont stand on her
i love my big poopy bum
this dog is so small and CUTE!!!!!! im gonna DIE!!!!
This is such a cute doggy! 9.1 cm is so cool. Having that type of dog, you’re holding the World Record for your dog, you’re the World Record holder, well, for you dog that is. Also how does it feel like to having the World’s Shortest Dog? That must be awesome taking care of a beautiful girl. Pearl!
i like dogs cuz theyre ugly and go woof barks bark woof-oof chuawahs are smaller than my big toe woof bye *barks*
I’d rather look at this then random stuff. This is so COOL! That must be awesome to have some type of dog!
That dog is so small!OMG!
not only is it the smallest dog its also the cutest :0 🙂
That us the cutest chihuahua ever!!! Omg imma dieeeeee
😍😍😍😍😍😍😍