Martin Anderson: Why deaf festivals matter: Looking ahead to the Oxford Deaf Festival (BSL)

When I resumed my role in January 2025 as Project and Development Manager at Action Deafness, one of the projects I was entrusted with was the Oxford Deaf Festival. From the moment I learned about it, I felt a familiar spark – one that comes from knowing something special is about to happen.

This isn’t just another event. It’s a celebration, a gathering, a statement. For many in the Deaf community, festivals like this are more than calendar dates – they’re lifelines of connection, culture, and visibility.

Set in the heart of Oxford, a city steeped in history and academic excellence, the Oxford Deaf Festival (26-27 September 2025 at Oxford Town Hall) promises to be a vibrant mix of inspiration, innovation, and inclusion.

Organised by Action Deafness in collaboration with SignLive (soon to be Convo) as Gold Sponsor, the event brings together Deaf leaders, tech innovators, educators, and community members from across the UK.

This two-day celebration is packed with keynote presentations from leading organisations and voices, including SignLive (soon to be Convo), NDCS, LumoTV, BDA, Sahera Khan, and Stephen Illiffe.

There is also Signly, Signaspe, BDA and Professor Richard Bowden who will also be part of a thought-provoking panel discussion on the role of AI in Deaf futures.

Alongside these talks, the festival offers interactive workshops and vibrant exhibition stalls, all designed to showcase Deaf excellence and spark meaningful connections.

On Friday, the spotlight is on schools and colleges – though the day is open to all – and we’re honoured to welcome William Mager and Matthew Gurney, two influential figures whose work continues to inspire and empower the Deaf community.

On Saturday, the festival opens even wider, inviting families, professionals, and allies to join in, with the ever-engaging Yvonne Cobb bringing her warmth and passion to the programme.

And to round off each day, we’re thrilled to present evening comedy performances from the brilliant Gavin Lilley, Fifi Garfield, and Adrian Bailey – guaranteed to leave you laughing and uplifted. These are moments not to be missed.

But beyond the impressive lineup of workshops, exhibitions, and panels, what truly makes this festival stand out is its heart. For Deaf people – especially young people – visibility is powerful.

Friday’s focus on schools and colleges but open to all is a brilliant move. It creates a safe, welcoming space for students to explore career paths, meet role models, and see what’s possible. It’s not just about showcasing technology – it’s about showing Deaf youth that they belong in every space, from classrooms to boardrooms.

Saturday opens the doors to everyone, inviting families, professionals, and allies to experience the richness of Deaf culture. From exploring Oxford’s Deaf history to engaging with new communication tools, the festival offers something for every curious mind.

One of the most underrated aspects of Deaf festivals is the sense of community they foster. In a world that often overlooks or misunderstands Deaf experiences, these events are reminders. They say: “You’re not alone. You’re part of something bigger.”

The Oxford Deaf Festival is designed to spark connections – not just between organisations and attendees, but between people. Whether it’s chatting over a stall, sharing stories in a workshop, or engaging at the evening entertainment, these moments matter. They build trust, solidarity, and joy.

What excites us most is the festival’s theme: Where Technology Meets Heritage. It’s a reminder that Deaf culture is not static – it evolves. From BSL video messaging to cochlear implant innovations, the tools we use are changing. But our stories, our heritage, and our community values remain strong.

Oxford, with its legacy of research and discovery, is the perfect backdrop for this conversation. It’s a place where the past and future can meet, and where Deaf voices can shape both.

Within my role and working on community engagement, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful inclusivity can be. Inclusion isn’t just about tech – it’s about people. It’s about creating spaces where Deaf people can thrive, lead, and celebrate who they are.

Festivals like Oxford are vital. They challenge stereotypes, promote accessibility, and celebrate Deaf excellence. They’re not just for the Deaf community – they’re for everyone who believes in equity, creativity, and connection.

If you’ve never been to a Deaf festival, I encourage you to come to Oxford Deaf Festival. Listen with your eyes. Learn with your heart. Whether you’re Deaf, Deafblind, Hard of Hearing, hearing, or somewhere in between, you’ll walk away changed.

Oxford Deaf Festival isn’t just an event – it’s a movement. And we are proud to be part of it.

Discover Oxford Deaf Festival: https://OxfordDeafFestival2025.eventbrite.co.uk