The City of Johannesburg Department of Social Development once again participated in the second Annual Silent Walk in support of its partner DEAFSA to commemorate International Week of the Deaf and the International Day of Sign Language.

 Over 300 enthusiastic individuals came out to take part in this year’s walk that took place at the Zoo Lake Sport Club. The aim of the Silent Walk is to unite members of the deaf and hearing community and to promote the rights of the deaf communities and the status of sign language.

Many people with disabilities struggle with communication and participating in civil activism, they are excluded, and that’s why the City has partnered with DEAFSA to ensure deaf people’s inclusion in society.

The silent walk also aims to educate the private and public sector to include the deaf persons in availing skills and job opportunities.
During the walk the hearing participants are given masks and earplugs to get a feel of what it’s like to be deaf. The experience connects the deaf and hearing communities to promote the learning of South African sign language.

Member of the Mayoral Committee for Health and Social Development Dr Mpho Phalatse said the City still has a lot to do in ensuring the inclusion of the deaf community.

“We are committing to making strides in helping our deaf communities with integration into society, in the past year we’ve started offering sign language training for families of people who are deaf or hard of hearing,” said MMC Phalatse.

The day’s activities did not end with the 1.6km walk, 5km walk and 10km run. Other activities included silent aerobics, deaf tennis and a kid’s play court. Winners of the walks and run were rewarded with medals and other prizes.