7 February 2024
Paris Hosts French Sign Language Workshop to Foster Workplace Inclusion
Colleagues celebrate diversity and learn valuable new skills in learning sign language during initiative to promote employment for those with disabilities.
To celebrate diversity in the workplace during the European Week for the Employment of People with Disabilities, Acolad held a special sign language workshop.
French Sign Language (FSL) is used by roughly 100,000 French speakers, especially in France and parts of Switzerland. While some employees might know how to sign a handful of words or phrases - and probably in one of the English sign languages - many likely do not. That's why the Boulogne-Billancourt office held an inspiring FSL session covering the basics of how the language works.
As well as recognizing a week dedicated to promoting employment for people with disabilities, the initiative helped introduce some practical, valuable life skills. During the hour-long session, a sign language teacher introduced FSL with:
- The history of FSL
- How FSL works
- A comprehensive structure of the language including the alphabet, greetings, colors, and other common topics
- Some visual expressions and the body language that goes with them
- Numerous scenarios for everyone to practice their signing!
The response of those who attended the session was extremely positive and many expressed an interest in continuing to learn FSL.
“It was an enriching journey into the world of Sign Language to understand the experience for those who are deaf or hard of hearing,” said Sylvana Ah-Laye, Field Marketing Manager.
“It was very instructive, and I wish it could have lasted longer!” Added Anne-Sophie Cordier, Interpreting Project Manager.
Acolad's commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected through initiatives like the Sign Language workshop, to foster understanding and empathy in the workplace. A continued effort to celebrate and support people of all abilities helps us move closer to a more inclusive and equitable society.
More about the European Week for the Employment of People with Disabilities
The European Week for the Employment of People with Disabilities takes place in France in late November each year. The week is dedicated to initiatives that bring companies, politicians, associations, civil businesses, and job seekers with disabilities together to propose concrete actions to facilitate recruitment.
This week is an opportunity to learn about the various measures put in place to advance the professional integration of persons with disabilities.
Recent News