SIGNSPARK
2026

Pre-Order T-Shirt Click Here

Event Date: September 23, 2026 @ 2:00pm-8:00pm
Location: UBC Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, Vancouver, BC

BeWelcome

BCCSD will host a one-day community event celebrating the United Nations–recognized International Day of Sign Languages. The event will promote awareness and understanding of sign languages, highlight educational and community-based topics, and create opportunities for Deaf and hearing communities to connect, learn, and share experiences.

The venue will feature three dedicated areas:

Little Sparks Kids/Family Room (C215) — Crafts, face painting, and a quiet/relaxation space
Spark Lab Workshop Room (C225) — Educational sessions on AI, United Nations recognition, Analyzing Sign Language Music
SignSpark Stage (C300) — Filming Documentary "Being Michelle" (beingmichelle.com) and the Evening Showcase opening remarks by an Elder from the Musqueam Nation and performances by Deaf and hearing artists.

Spark Lab
Presenters Lineup

Kristi Mahe AI and innovation
Mae Thorton Mehra: What is the basic human right to communication for Deaf, Deaf+ and Disabled people in social and criminal justice systems?
Kim Block: panelist
Dr. Anabel Maler- Analzying Sign Language Music
GVAD Tammy Gray: What is International Day of Sign Languages (IDSL)?
Naomi Brand: All Bodies Dance Project

SignSpark Stage
Performance Lineup

Teanna Kay IG: teanna.can
Elder Mary Point
Right Honourable Mark Carney's Letter by Gregory Desrosiers
BCCSD President- Christian Vasquez
Chris Dodd
Clovis Bernard- "Flower Bright"
Jenny Morris
Vancouver Poetry House/Historic Joy Kogawa House IG: @vancouverpoetryhouse
Brenda Lee Boubard
Steve Miller
Elee Kraljii Gardiner IG: @eleekg
Johnny Trinh- Production Manager
"Nurse...HELP!" Ensemble

Hey.Café

Our History

Ways to Get Involved

Sponsorship Opportunity

Community Champion – $1,000+

Featured logo on event poster, website, and digital program booklet
Recognition during the evening showcase
Complimentary vendor table
Social media recognition before and after the event

Community Partner – $500

Logo in the digital program booklet and on the event website
Recognition during the evening showcase
Complimentary vendor table
Social media recognition

Community Supporter – $250

Name listed in the digital program booklet
Recognition during the evening showcase
Social media thank-you recognition

Sliding Scale Vendor Fee - $50–$100
Vendors are invited to choose a fee between $50–$100 based on organizational size and capacity. Exemptions available on request. We aim to keep this accessible and won't turn anyone away for financial reasons. Contact [email protected] to discuss options. Includes: one vendor table, and the chance to connect with attendees and share resources.