In this month's "In Depth" section, we talk about “The Sea in Silence”, a transformative initiative by ICM-CSIC and ICATMAR that combines science and inclusion with the goal of overcoming communication barriers with the deaf community.
Science has the power to explain the natural phenomena that surround us, provide solutions to global problems, and foster curiosity and critical thinking. However, for this power to have a profound and equitable impact, scientific advances and knowledge must be accessible to all people, regardless of their abilities. In this context, the “The Sea in Silence” project emerges as a transformative initiative that unites science and inclusion to overcome communication barriers with the deaf community. Through the use of Catalan Sign Language (LSC) and the organization of adapted activities, this project is an inspiring example of how science can be an integrative and inclusive space.
Inclusive Scientific Communication
Scientific outreach has grown significantly in recent decades, with initiatives aiming to bring knowledge to different sectors of society. Despite these advances, people with hearing impairments are often excluded from these opportunities due to the lack of communicative accessibility. The limited use of sign language in events, conferences, and other scientific gatherings perpetuates this inequality.
“The Sea in Silence” addresses this challenge directly, opening the doors to marine knowledge for the deaf community in Barcelona. The project emphasizes inclusion by promoting dialogue between deaf and hearing people to break the social and cultural barriers that often separate these communities. This is especially relevant in a city like Barcelona, which aspires to be a reference in diversity and social innovation.
A Bridge Between Science and Community
The project not only addresses the specific needs of the deaf community but also works to promote inclusion and collaboration between deaf and hearing people. This approach aims to avoid segregation and build a future where diversity is seen as an enriching value. The inclusion of LSC as a means of communication is not just a symbolic gesture, but a practical tool to ensure everyone can access scientific content.
“The Sea in Silence” is also a model of collaboration between institutions. Led by the Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC) and ICATMAR, the project aims to inspire other entities in Catalonia to adopt similar practices. In the long term, it seeks to consolidate LSC interpretation in all events organized by ICM and promote the learning of this language within the research center. This strategic goal reflects a vision of the future where science is not only inclusive but also sustainable and replicable.
Educational and Community Activities
The heart of the project lies in the activities designed to connect the deaf community with marine biology and research. During the 2024-2025 academic year, “The Sea in Silence” will focus on two main lines of action: school and family activities.
The school activities will be aimed at students in 3rd to 6th grade at the Tres Pins school, an educational center with approximately 26 students per class. This approach allows introducing scientific knowledge from an early age, generating interest in marine research and raising awareness about the importance of inclusion. Through interactive workshops, children will explore key concepts in marine biology while learning about the cultural and linguistic diversity represented by LSC.
Family activities, on the other hand, aim to celebrate two significant dates in the biology and conservation calendar: December 23, 2024, at the Port Vell Christmas Fair, and May 10, 2025, at the Centre de la Platja. These talks not only offer an opportunity to learn but also to connect with other families and strengthen the sense of community.
A Model for the Future
"El Mar en Silenci" is not just a one-off project but a movement that aims to redefine how we understand inclusive scientific communication. By incorporating LSC as an essential part of scientific dialogue, this project ensures that science is not an exclusive space for a few, but a right accessible to everyone.
Moreover, its influence goes beyond the deaf community. Hearing people who participate in the activities learn to recognise and value the importance of inclusion, helping to undo stigma and prejudice. This two-way impact is fundamental to building a more equitable and cohesive society.
However, “The Sea in Silence” project is a living example of how science can break down barriers and act as a bridge between diverse communities. Through its combination of innovation, education and inclusion, this project not only benefits the deaf community, but also reminds us all that knowledge is a collective good. By promoting an inclusive and enriching dialogue, ‘The Silent Sea’ invites us to imagine a future where science is truly for all.