Online Reporter
Disability Issues
Dr Christine Peta
IN Zimbabwe, May is designated as National Culture Month, observed annually from May 1 to 31.
The 2025 edition is themed “Celebrating Indigenous Voices”.
This article, therefore, focuses on the voice of Deaf persons and Deaf culture as an integral part of our broader national culture.
Some mistakenly believe deaf people lack a voice because they generally do not communicate verbally.
However, Section 6 (1) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe explicitly recognises Sign Language as one of the country’s 16 official languages, thereby acknowledging the voice and language of Deaf people.
Consistent with the norm globally, deaf culture in Zimbabwe encompasses the shared values, norms, beliefs, history and artistic expressions of the Deaf community. It is a distinct culture with its own language (Zimbabwean Sign Language), social norms and traditions, offering rich and diverse experiences.
It is important to distinguish between “Deaf” with a capital “D” and “deaf” with a lower case “d”.
“Deaf” refers to individuals who identify with Deaf culture, while “deaf” describes the audiological condition of not hearing.
The Deaf community emphasises belonging, shared experiences and a unique perspective on the world, often advocating the rights and recognition of their language and culture.
Sign language is fundamental to Deaf culture as the primary mode of communication within the community. It fosters a strong sense of cultural identity among Deaf individuals, serving as a shared language that connects community members and defines their cultural boundaries and shared experiences.
Sign language enables unique artistic expressions, such as storytelling, poetry and performances (for example Deaf theatre), which convey cultural values and strengthen community bonds.
Furthermore, sign language facilitates social interactions and community-building.
Deaf individuals frequently gather in social settings where sign language is the medium, creating spaces for friendship and support.
Through sign language, Deaf culture transmits knowledge, traditions and history.
Educational programmes often prioritise the use of sign language to preserve and promote cultural values. Proficiency in sign language empowers Deaf individuals to advocate their rights, access services and participate in social and political discussions.
It plays a crucial role in raising awareness about Deaf issues.
Overall, sign language is not merely a communication tool; it embodies the values, history and identity of the Deaf community, making it a cornerstone of Deaf culture.
But who exactly is part of the Deaf community?
Membership extends beyond individuals who primarily use sign language; it also includes hearing family members, friends and sign language interpreters who actively support and engage with the Deaf community.
Why should we embrace Deaf culture?
The United Nations asserts that cultural diversity is a driving force for development, contributing not only to economic growth but also to a more fulfilling intellectual, emotional, moral and spiritual life.
Conflict often arises in countries with limited intercultural dialogue; therefore, strengthening such dialogue is crucial for achieving cooperation and peace.
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are best realised by leveraging the creative potential of diverse cultures and engaging in continuous dialogue to ensure that all members of society, including the Deaf community, benefit from sustainable development.
As we celebrate Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage during this 2025 edition of National Culture Month, showcasing the diverse cultural practices of our country and promoting intellectual dialogue for cross-cultural understanding and exchange, we must consider Deaf culture in our policies, laws and programmes, thereby upholding our national principle of leaving no one and no place behind.
Dr Christine Peta is a disability, public health, policy, international development and research expert. She can be contacted on: [email protected]
Online Reporter