Mexican sign language: cultural identity and a fundamental right for people with hearing disabilities in Michoacán

Abstract

In Mexico, sign language (LSM), from its origin to the present day, has been little valued, despite meaning more than just a means of communication for the deaf community, as for them it is part of their cultural identity and an essential element for social interaction. One of the main challenges has been its recognition as a cultural and linguistic heritage, with the aim of guaranteeing full inclusion and equality in the exercise of their human rights. This article highlights the need for sign language to be truly made visible and valued for its importance to thousands of people. A review and analysis were conducted of various documents on Mexican sign language, the cultural identity of the deaf community, and their fundamental rights, including local and federal regulatory documents, journal articles, and official materials from the SEP, all open and accessible sources to understand the current state in this field.