Sign Language Village: Hands Speak What Hearts Seek

Nestled amidst Hanoi city lies the Sign Language Village—a unique community where the allure of sign language captivates not only those with hearing impairments but also individuals from all walks of life.

Members of the village

(Source: The Sign Language Village)

The Melody of Sign Language Unity

The Sign Language Village was established by a group of friends who desired to create an educational environment for the enduring people’s demand for knowledge and connection. The composition of its residents is diverse, ranging from the youngest children (9 years old) to students or working adults. The Sign Language Village stands as a beacon of inclusivity - a place where individuals from all walks of life come together to learn, grow, and connect. Here, age, background, and auditory abilities fade into insignificance, replaced by a shared passion for language and a commitment to understanding. 

Villagers in a weekly meeting

(Source: The Pigeonist)

Mrs. Phạm Bích Giang, the village head, emphasized, "We aimed to create a space where anyone, regardless of their background, could develop themselves through exploring the beauty of sign language."

For many residents, the journey began with just a simple curiosity— an intrigue sparked by the silent eloquence of sign language, and their motivations are varied. Some were drawn to the village out of a desire to broaden their linguistic horizons, while others sought a deeper understanding of communication beyond verbal speech. 

The journey of discovery is not without its challenges. Many residents confessed to initial timidity and uncertainty as they navigated the intricacies of sign language. However, with the unwavering support of their peers and the guidance of village mentors, they found solace in the collective pursuit of knowledge.

New members are being taught basic gestures

(Source: The Pigeonist)

From Novice to "Self"-Navigator

The Sign Language Village blurs the line between a space and a home by fostering both educational goals and a sense of belonging. Each space within the village serves a separate purpose in order to reach their anticipated vision: “The colorful silence”.

Villagers gather in the library to share stories with others

 (Source: The Pigeonist)

In the heart of the village lies the Library, a place for those seeking knowledge. Here is where the residents immerse themselves in diverse materials such as sign language, deaf culture, and others. The library also holds sessions of group projects and practice of sign language on a regular basis where everyone from beginners to proficient can increase their level of proficiency.

A villager is discussing with the supervisor about her personal project

(Source: The Pigeonist)

In the village, where sounds fade into silence, each resident embarks on their own individual time of self-learning. Each member has his own project which is driven by the desire for constant development. Every weekend, members of this community have a gathering to share their ideas and celebrate the contributions of others. They strive not only for their own well-being but also for that of their fellows.

Personal projects of some villagers in April 2023

(Source: The Pigeonist)

The workshop is also an event that stands out, being a tool for stimulating creativity and community development. Here, residents engage in hands-on projects ranging from crafting to artwork. Each project is a collaborative effort, encouraging all members to communicate and solve the problems through sign language.

Some workshop activities and products

(Source: The Pigeonist)

In the Sign Language Village, learning knows no bounds. Despite their diverse backgrounds and levels of expertise, the residents share a common goal: To unfold the intricacies of sign language and establish deep bonds along the way. Hence, it creates a particularly close community, with the residents as good friends to each other as they are to their families. Every single conversation takes place through hand gestures, then again, the room stays so noisy but joyful faces light up everywhere, and happy laughter fills the area.

Even though just using sign language, they still have happy moments together

(Source: The Sign Language Village)

Recently formed in November 2023, Lang Ky Hieu or Sign language village has strived to create a community where the disable and the people with interest in sign language could stay together, relaxing and learning the language with each other in the most comfortable ways possible. Being silent but the house at Van Chuong valley, the place where the ‘villagers’ communicate, is always filled with warmth and laughter. Lang ky hieu might be small at the moment but with the positive image along with other meaningful events, they will attract more ‘villagers’ in no time.

What is the meaning of this gesture? 🤟

• Yes, absolutely
• I love you
• Hello
• Ok