Saskatchewan Recognizes Sign Languages as Official Languages
Saskatchewan has joined the ranks of four Canadian provinces that recognize sign languages as official languages. The Accessible Saskatchewan Act (Bill 103) passed in December 2022 enshrines American Sign Language (ASL) and Indigenous sign languages as primary languages for deaf persons in the province.
Bill 103: A Step Forward
The passing of Bill 103 is a significant step towards addressing the systemic barriers faced by DHH individuals in Saskatchewan. Historically, the lack of access to sign language instruction and ASL interpreters has hindered the education and overall well-being of DHH students.
Polarization and Its Impact
A historical polarization between proponents of sign language and auditory-verbal therapy (AVT) has exacerbated the challenges for DHH children. AVT prioritizes spoken language development, often discouraging the use of sign language. This approach has contributed to language deprivation for many DHH individuals.
Urgent Need for Language Access
Research emphasizes the importance of early sign language instruction for DHH children. Without sufficient language access during critical development periods, DHH individuals may face linguistic deprivation syndrome, isolation, and mental health issues.
Bill 103: Implications for Schools
The Accessible Saskatchewan Act requires K-12 school divisions to develop public plans to accommodate deaf students. This includes providing ASL interpretation for teachers who lack sign language skills and ensuring access to appropriate educational resources.
Resources and Support
Several resources for DHH learners in Saskatchewan are emerging, including:
* Provincial curriculum for teaching ASL and Deaf Culture in high schools
* Children, Communicating, Connecting in Community (CCCC) preschool in Saskatoon
* Bilingual/bicultural program at St. Philip Catholic School in Saskatoon
* Educational services for DHH learners at Henry Janzen School in Regina
* ASL classes and DHH-related services at the Saskatchewan Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (SDHHS)
Ongoing Support and Commitment
Bill 103 provides a framework for ensuring accessibility for DHH individuals in Saskatchewan. However, ongoing political and financial support is crucial for its effective implementation. Educational institutions will need resources and training to provide the necessary services and learning technologies for DHH students. By working collaboratively, we can create an inclusive and equitable education system for all students, regardless of their hearing abilities.