Fiji Sign Language Interpreters Fiji is calling for greater respect and understanding of Fiji Sign Language following an incident involving students allegedly mocking the language.

In a media statement, the organisation said it was deeply concerned about the incident and stressed that Fiji Sign Language should not be treated as a joke.

“Fiji Sign Language is not a joke,” the organisation said.

It said Fiji Sign Language is a recognised language and an essential means of communication for members of Fiji’s Deaf community.

The organisation warned that mocking the language can cause harm, reinforce negative attitudes and undermine the dignity, inclusion and communication rights of Deaf people.

“As interpreters, we work to support communication access and inclusion,” the statement said.

Fiji Sign Language Interpreters Fiji said the incident highlights the need for greater awareness and education about Deaf culture, Fiji Sign Language and the importance of respecting all forms of communication.

The organisation also supported calls for accountability, saying the incident should provide an opportunity for meaningful learning and reflection.

“Respect for Fiji Sign Language is respect for the Deaf community.”

The organisation is calling on students, educational institutions and the wider community to promote inclusion, understanding and respect.

It said greater awareness of Fiji Sign Language and Deaf culture is important in ensuring that members of the Deaf community can communicate and participate fully in society.

Assistant Minister for Foreign Affair says she is absolutely disgusted by USP students who filmed and posted videos mocking Fiji Sign Language and our Deaf Community.
“As a hearing person who has learned basic Fiji Sign Language to be able to communicate with my Deaf friends, I am saddened that these USP students think it’s funny.”
She added that mocking someone’s language, ability, communication style or hearing doesn’t make you funny, it just shows a lack of empathy and education.