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Day of the Portuguese Sign Language Interpreter
Updated : 22/01/2026
On January 22, we celebrate the Day of the Portuguese Sign Language Interpreter (ILGP), this date refers to the foundation, in Lisbon, of the first Association of Portuguese Sign Language Interpreters, AILGP, in 1991, and aims to recognize and value the essential work of these professionals in promoting inclusion and accessible communication for the Deaf Community.
Portuguese Sign Language interpreters play an essential role in ensure communication between deaf and hearing people in contexts such as education, health and public and private events, promoting the access to information, a equal opportunities and respect for linguistic and cultural diversity.
The training and continuous updating of these professionals are fundamental, given the positive impact they have on the autonomy and active participation of deaf people in society.
The Portuguese Sign Language Interpreter's Day is an occasion to recognize and thank the contribution of these professionals to a more inclusive and accessible society.
O National Institute for Rehabilitation (INR), is also committed to provide the improvement of the response in the service and access to information in an accessible way for all, having recently reinforced his staff with another technician with the valence of interpretation for Portuguese Sign Language. On the other hand, it is also, in solidarity, with other public administration bodies working to increase this capacity to respond to more services, through the Service Center in Portuguese Sign Language - Gov.pt.