Barcelona, Spain – FC Barcelona honored the deaf community by performing the Barça anthem in sign language during a match at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, coinciding with the International Week of the Deaf and International Sign Language Day.
A choir from the Barcelona Deaf Cultural and Recreational Center, along with members of the Barça Deaf Supporters’ Club, showcased the anthem in sign language. Prior to the game, deaf children from the club and the Catalan Association of Families and People with Deafness (ACAPPS) joined the players on the pitch.
The Barça Deaf Supporters’ Club introduced the sign language representation of the word “BARÇA” to promote awareness of the team’s name among sign language users.
In celebration of its 125th anniversary, FC Barcelona initiated a campaign inviting fans to participate in the sign language rendition of the anthem. Players including Jules Koundé, Marc Casadó, Sergi Domínguez, Jana Fernández, Marta Torrejón, and Ona Batlle took part in this initiative.
This project was developed in collaboration with start-up Visualfy, which offers solutions catering to the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
To reinforce its commitment to diversity and inclusivity, FC Barcelona has established partnerships with organizations such as ACAPPS and ONCE Social Group and has provided digital accessibility training for its staff.
“This recent initiative is part of ongoing efforts by our DEI department, stemming from a collaboration with ACAPPS, an NGO dedicated to representing and advocating for the rights of deaf individuals who communicate orally, ensuring their full participation and accessibility in all aspects of life,” stated FC Barcelona in a press release.