Sign Language Week 2026: “United in Sign” Celebrates Unity, Pride and Allyship
16–22 March 2026
AEW will be joining communities across the UK from 16 to 22 March 2026 to celebrate Sign Language Week 2026, a national campaign highlighting the importance of sign languages and the culture and identity of Deaf communities.
This year’s theme, “United in Sign,” focuses on unity, pride and collective action. The week aims to raise awareness of British Sign Language (BSL) while encouraging both Deaf and hearing communities to celebrate and support the language.
A message of pride and empowerment
For the Deaf community, the week carries a powerful message of visibility, identity and leadership.
“This is our language, our heritage, our identity. This week we lead, we stand proud - United in Sign.”
The campaign celebrates sign language not only as a means of communication but also as a cornerstone of Deaf culture and heritage.
An invitation to allies
The initiative also invites the wider public to become allies by learning and supporting sign languages.
“Every sign learned is an act of allyship. Join us as an ally, learn, share and support us.”
Organisers hope the campaign will inspire more people to engage with BSL and contribute to a more inclusive society.
Why not:
Learn some signs
Anyone interested in getting started with BSL can explore simple, everyday signs through a series of short online tutorials. These videos are designed to make learning accessible and encourage people to take their first steps into sign language.
You can access the tutorials here:
https://signlanguageweek.org.uk/learn-some-signs
Wear It Blue - to show support
Schools, workplaces and community groups are also encouraged to take part in “Wear It Blue” activities during the week.
Free resources are available, including posters, activity ideas, social media graphics and event guidance to help organisations show their support for the Deaf community.
As part of the campaign, Adult Education Wolverhampton (AEW) will be wearing blue on Tuesday 17 March to demonstrate pride, allyship and support for Deaf-led change across the UK.
The meaning behind the colour blue
Blue is a key colour in the Deaf Flag, a global symbol of Deaf identity and unity.
• Turquoise blue represents sign language and community - the heart of Deaf culture.
• Dark blue symbolises humanity and the journey of Deafhood.
By wearing blue, participants stand in solidarity with the Deaf community and celebrate the richness of sign language.
Sign Language Week continues to grow each year, encouraging more people to learn, share and champion sign languages across the UK. Through education, awareness and allyship, the campaign highlights how communication can bring communities together - truly United in Sign.
