Raising the Deaf Flag at Parliament
- The Hearing House
- Sep 23
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 23
This morning began with a sense of anticipation at New Zealand Parliament. For the first time in Aotearoa, the Deaf Flag was raised, a moment that carried both history and hope. The occasion was made even more special as it took place during International Week of Deaf People, a global celebration of Deaf culture, language, and identity. Our CEO, Claire Green, was honoured to be among those invited to witness this milestone for the Deaf community.
As the flag was lifted, its colours caught the light of the morning. Turquoise blue spoke of the Deaf community, New Zealand Sign Language, pride, and unity. Yellow shone brightly, a reminder of life, hope, and thriving together. Dark blue grounded the design, connecting to humanity, Deafhood, and the collective identity of Deaf people across the world. The hands stretching across the flag seemed alive, symbolising signing, expressiveness, and the connections that reach beyond borders.
The Deaf Flag was created by French Deafblind artist Arnaud Balard and officially adopted by the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) in 2023. It is more than a design. It is a statement of belonging, a celebration of language and culture, and a call for recognition that Deaf people are not defined only by health or disability, but by their identity as a cultural and linguistic community.
For Claire, being present at Parliament this morning was a privilege. She described feeling deeply moved as the flag rose into the sky, knowing it represented not just visibility, but respect and acknowledgement for the Deaf community here in Aotearoa.
The raising of the Deaf Flag is more than a ceremony. It is a reminder that Deaf people are a vital part of the rich diversity that makes our country stronger. Today, at Parliament, that truth was honoured for all to see.
