Breaking Barriers: The Need for Sign Language in Mosques

As a Deaf Muslim and a youth and disability advocate, I urge world Muslim leaders to prioritize accessibility in mosques by providing sign language interpreters. Many churches ensure Deaf Christians have interpreters during services, yet most mosques still fail to offer this support only fewest are trying. This exclusion leaves Deaf Muslims struggling to understand Friday sermons, daily prayers, and essential teachings of Islam.

Ramadan, our holy month of worship and reflection, is a time when all Muslims seek spiritual growth. However, Deaf Muslims often miss out due to the lack of sign language interpretation in mosques. While Christian communities actively support their Deaf members with interpreters, many mosques have yet to take similar steps.

Islam is a religion of justice, inclusion, and equality. Deaf Muslims deserve the right to fully participate in prayers, sermons, and religious discussions. We call on Muslim leaders, scholars, and mosque authorities to recognize the importance of sign language and ensure interpreters are present, especially during Friday prayers and Ramadan programs.

Let’s make our mosques truly welcoming and inclusive. By providing sign language interpreters, we uphold the values of unity, compassion, and equal access to knowledge that Islam teaches. The time for change is now!

Ibrahim Bapio Sumani
Tamale -Ghana
[email protected]