IDGS
Institute of
German Sign Language and
Communication of the Deaf
German Sign Language and
Communication of the Deaf
„Knowledge on Tap“ („Wissen vom Fass“)
12 June 2025
Photo: UHH/IDGS
On 12 June, 2025, the University of Hamburg hosted a special evening as part of its “Wissen vom Fass“ ("Knowledge on Tap”) series: Annika Herrmann and Liona Paulus spoke on the harbor stage at the PIERDREI Hotel in HafenCity on the topic “Are sign languages languages without borders?”
In a relaxed bar atmosphere, guests were able to talk directly with the researchers and get to know, among other things, that sign languages are by no means the same everywhere and also take other forms, such as tactile sign language, which deafblind people use.
The audience learned that sign languages can be used to express everything, whether telling jokes in a bar, debating in the Bundestag, or giving a lecture at university. Liona Paulus and Annika Herrmann also talked about poetry, theater, and festivals in the Deaf communities, as well as how the history of deaf people influences our understanding of language and an inclusive society. The event was accompanied by DGS/German interpreters.
Thank you to everyone who attended – for an exciting evening full of new impressions and stimulating exchange!
