UN Declares 27 June as International Day of Deafblindness

The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution proclaiming 27 June as the International Day of Deafblindness.

• The resolution encourages all Member States and UN agencies to promote the empowerment, visibility, and inclusion of deafblind individuals in all areas of society.
• The date was chosen to honour the birth of Helen Keller (born 27 June 1880), a globally respected figure in the deafblind community.
• The resolution was introduced by Croatia.

Key points:

• The day is already observed informally by the deafblind community to raise awareness.
• It coincides with Deafblind International Awareness Week, celebrated in the last week of June.
• The day aims to highlight the contributions, rights, and dignity of deafblind individuals worldwide.
• Events such as conferences, exhibitions, and public campaigns are encouraged to spread awareness.