USP students apologize over sign language video

The University of the South Pacific Students’ Association has acknowledged that students were involved in a video that appeared to mock Fiji’s sign language. The association's interim president, Adi Talatoka Cama, stated that the students have apologized after receiving counseling.

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USPSA Laucala we recognize the importance of respecting Fiji’s sign language, the deaf community and the right of every individual to communicate with dignity.

Cama noted that the university had not received any formal complaints and only became aware of the video recently. She emphasized the association's recognition of the importance of respecting Fiji’s sign language and the deaf community, stressing that the students' actions do not represent the University of the South Pacific as a whole. She highlighted the institution's commitment to inclusion, respect, and accessibility, supported by services like the disability resource center.

Meanwhile, Fiji's Minister for Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, released a statement condemning the video. Kiran stated that sign language is a vital means of communication and an expression of identity for the deaf community, not a subject for jokes or entertainment. She warned that mocking sign language reinforces harmful stereotypes faced by persons with disabilities.

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The actions of individual students involved in this incident, it does not represent the University of the South Pacific as a whole, nor do they reflect other values and principles of inclusion, respect and accessibility promoted by the University and its support services including the disability resource centre and the inclusive education courses that have been integrated into our education system.

The student association expressed concern about personal attacks on the students involved, despite understanding public outrage. The safety and well-being of the students remain a priority as the matter is addressed internally.

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Sign language is not a joke, a costume or a prop for entertainment. It is an essential means of communication and an important expression of language, culture and identity for members of the deaf community. Making fun of it is disrespectful and reinforces the harmful attitudes and stereotypes that persons with disabilities continue to face.