Deaf in Japan

Introduction / History

Unlike most people groups, Deaf people can be found in every country in the world and often blend in with the broader community around them. In many situations, Deaf people are viewed as disability group, but a more accurate approach is to consider them as a distinct people group. This is true in Japan as well as every other country.

What Are Their Lives Like?

In Japan, the value placed on Sign Language has only lately been increasing. The older Deaf here are often separated from the younger Deaf. Japanese Sign Language is used in secondary and high schools but not in primary schools. Deaf schools are looked on as not being academic and so the younger Deaf have been going to hearing institutions. Many of them avoid joining Deaf groups and some are now going back to Deaf schools where they feel more at home.

Though the Japanese Deaf are reticent to show the inside of their homes, they regularly use video calls on their cameras to communicate with each other.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Japanese people are Buddhists and Shintoists. Deaf members of their families are exposed to these religions, but because of their limited communication abilities, it’s hard to know how much they understand.

What Are Their Needs?

The Deaf need jobs, but they are at a grave disadvantage.

Prayer Points

Pray for some of the teachers of the Deaf in Japan to be Christians and lead the Deaf here to Jesus Christ.
Pray that the Deaf are and feel valued in Japan and let them know that they are valued by Jesus Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project