What is National NonSpeaking / Nonverbal Awareness Day?

National NonSpeaking / Nonverbal Awareness Day is observed annually on September 30th to raise awareness about individuals who communicate without speech, known as nonspeaking or nonverbal individuals. This day aims to educate the public about the unique communication methods used by these individuals, including sign language, gestures, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, and other forms of nonverbal communication. The focus is on promoting inclusivity, understanding, and accessibility for nonspeaking individuals in various aspects of society.

The day also seeks to break down misconceptions, ensuring that being nonspeaking does not equate to a lack of intelligence or inability to communicate complex thoughts.

History and Origin

National NonSpeaking / Nonverbal Awareness Day was created by disability advocates and autism support organizations to bring attention to the communication needs of individuals who are nonspeaking due to conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or other developmental or neurological conditions. The day shines a light on the importance of providing appropriate communication tools and resources to help nonspeaking individuals participate fully in society.

The need for such a day grew as awareness about autism and other conditions affecting speech increased, with more emphasis on promoting equal access and representation for nonspeaking individuals in all areas of life.

Who Celebrates National NonSpeaking / Nonverbal Awareness Day?

• Nonspeaking Individuals: People who communicate nonverbally take this day to advocate for acceptance and support of their communication methods.
• Families and Caregivers: Those who care for nonspeaking individuals use this day to promote awareness and share their experiences about the challenges and triumphs of nonverbal communication.
• Educators and Speech Therapists: Teachers, therapists, and other professionals who work with nonspeaking individuals celebrate by sharing communication strategies and advocating for better access to communication tools like AAC devices.
• Disability Advocacy Organizations: Groups dedicated to disability rights and awareness host events, workshops, and campaigns to increase understanding of the needs and potential of nonspeaking individuals.
• The General Public: People who want to support the cause may participate in educational events, use social media to raise awareness, or donate to organizations that work with nonspeaking individuals.

Slogans and Themes

Slogans such as “Communication Beyond Words” and “Every Voice Matters” are central to National NonSpeaking / Nonverbal Awareness Day, emphasizing that communication takes many forms beyond speech. The day’s themes often focus on accessibility, inclusion, and the idea that everyone deserves to be heard, no matter how they communicate.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

• Colors:
  • Blue: Often used to represent autism awareness, a key community within the nonspeaking population.
  • Green: Symbolizes growth and the development of communication skills in nonverbal individuals.
  • Purple: Represents inclusivity and diversity, reflecting the wide variety of communication methods used by nonspeaking individuals.
• Symbols:
  • Speech Bubble with a Slash: A symbol used to represent nonverbal communication and the focus on alternative methods of expression.
  • Communication Devices: Representing AAC tools that many nonspeaking individuals use to communicate.
  • Hands: Signifying sign language and other forms of gestural communication.
• Patterns:
  • Interlocking Hands: Representing the idea of collaboration and support for nonspeaking individuals.
  • Wave Designs: Symbolizing the flow of communication in all forms, not just verbal speech.
  • Dots and Circles: Often used in designs to represent connection and the different ways nonspeaking individuals link with the world around them.

Most Used Hashtags

• #NonverbalAwareness
• #NonspeakingAwareness
• #AAC
• #InclusionMatters
• #AlternativeCommunication

How to Celebrate

• Learn About AAC: Educate yourself and others on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices and how they help nonspeaking individuals communicate.
• Support Nonverbal Individuals: Use this day to advocate for better accessibility tools and support for nonverbal individuals in schools, workplaces, and public spaces.
• Share Stories on Social Media: Use the day’s hashtags to spread awareness and share stories from nonspeaking individuals and their families about how they communicate.
• Host or Attend an Event: Participate in workshops or events that focus on nonverbal communication and the unique needs of nonspeaking individuals.
• Donate to Advocacy Groups: Support organizations that work to provide communication tools and promote awareness for nonspeaking individuals.

Importance of National NonSpeaking / Nonverbal Awareness Day

This day is critical in promoting understanding and acceptance of individuals who communicate without speech. It emphasizes the need for inclusive environments where nonspeaking individuals can express themselves fully, ensuring they have access to the same opportunities as their peers. The day highlights the importance of recognizing that communication comes in many forms, and nonspeaking individuals have valuable contributions to make, even without verbal speech.