Dakar, Senegal. On Wednesday, deaf and hard-of-hearing people took to the streets of Dakar, marching from Place de la Nation to the offices of the state broadcaster RTS. They demanded more rights, better education, and government support.
“We Are Always Forgotten”
The protest was organized by the Fédération des organisations de sourds et malentendants du Sénégal (FOSMAS). Participants wanted to make it clear: even if we cannot speak, we want to be heard.
“We want to be heard, even without words,” shouted one participant. Protesters highlighted major problems: high unemployment, too few schools for deaf children, and a lack of institutional support.
Another participant said, “For years, we have fought for our right to freedom of expression. Every time we submit our demands, we are forgotten.”
They called for real access to education, information, and political participation. Many experience daily exclusion because authorities, schools, and institutions do not address their needs.
Limited Resources, Big Challenges
The demonstration took place during the International Week of the Deaf (September 23–30). But financial resources are limited. A FOSMAS official explained: “We were given only two million CFA francs for the whole week. How are we supposed to cover transportation, accommodation for teams from Mauritania and Mali, and all the planned competitions?”
This lack of support shows that the concerns of deaf people are often not taken seriously. The protesters are calling for concrete help and better organization from the authorities.
Proud Sports Achievements – Yet No Support
Deaf athletes in Senegal have achieved remarkable success. They won the African Championship in 2021 and finished third at the World Championship in Malaysia. In November, they are scheduled to compete at the Deaflympics in Japan.
“We want the President and Prime Minister to support us,” said a federation leader. Despite these successes, athletes receive little financial or organizational assistance from the government. Many feel frustrated because their achievements are ignored.
Daily Discrimination
Beyond sports, deaf and hard-of-hearing people in Senegal face structural discrimination. FOSMAS highlights:
- Too few teachers who are fluent in sign language.
- Difficulties obtaining a driver’s license.
- Limited access to news and information.
One participant said, “Many of us live without knowing what is happening in our own country. We are constantly excluded.”
The protest made it clear: rights on paper are not enough. Deaf people need concrete measures to participate equally in society.
Demands of the Protesters
The protesters demand:
- More and better-funded schools for deaf children.
- Teachers trained in sign language.
- Easy access to information, news, and media.
- Support for athletes in international competitions.
- Political attention and direct measures against discrimination.
FOSMAS calls on the government: it is time to stop forgetting deaf people. The demonstration was loud, visible, and peaceful – sending a clear message for equality and inclusion.
