Using hands to communicate is universal. Many cultures share similar gestures for expressions such as “hello,” “goodbye,” and “please.” Displaying signs for hunger, giving a thumbs up, or using the peace sign may be second nature to us, but few ever stop to think about how much more we can say with our hands. The United Nations has designated September 23 as International Day of Sign Languages, and I reckon most people would be shocked to learn that there are in fact more than 300 sign languages around the world.
My introduction to the world of sign language
I’m not a Deaf person myself, but I’ve been curious about sign language for a very long time. I purchased my first book on basic signs when I was in high school. By the early 2010s, I wanted to commit to learning more, so I did some research and found out that in Canada, there are two main sign languages used: American Sign Language (ASL) in English-speaking parts of the country and langue des signes québécoise (LSQ) in Quebec and some parts of Eastern Canada. Moreover, there are a few Indigenous sign languages that are slowly making a comeback, such as Plain Indian Sign Language (PISL) and Inuit Sign Language (IUR or ISL).
It’s important to note, however, that each sign language has its own distinct grammar and vocabulary. Looking for similarities between ASL and LSQ is like trying to find common ground between English and French: not impossible, but uncommon. Many people used to ask me why there isn’t simply one sign language for all the Deaf people in the world. I would remind them that sign language is as old as spoken language, and before recent technological advances, there was no way for Deaf people across different regions and continents to communicate with one another.
When I started learning ASL, the first things we learned were quite simple: numbers and the alphabet. Then we moved on to animals, foods, colours, countries, and more. By the end of the beginner course, I could sign basic questions (and answers), such as “What is your favourite colour?” or “What do you like to eat on Sundays?” What I enjoyed most about the process was being with a group of open-minded people who wanted to absorb as much of this unique language as possible. To help with my learning, I made frequent use of a couple of websites, including HandSpeak, and purchased the Canadian Dictionary of ASL.
From learning to teaching
Clearly, my enthusiasm for ASL couldn’t be contained. I immediately began an intermediate-level course and even spent a week at Bob Rumball Summer Camp, an ASL adult immersion camp in Parry Sound, Ontario. Furthermore, being someone who loves to learn through teaching, I thought it would be neat to teach beginners some basic ASL. I did some research, but there weren’t a lot of choices in Montréal. So I pitched an idea to McGill University student services, and the next thing I knew, I was teaching a small group of keen students. Every semester the class size grew, which suggests that young people have an interest in learning sign language.
Sadly, like many things, a language that’s not practised gets rusty. I eventually moved abroad for a few years and lost most of the progress I had made. Writing this post, however, made me realize how much I miss learning new signs and conversing with people both inside and outside the Deaf community.
A vibrant culture
Deaf culture is a vibrant one. It includes theatre, film festivals, poetry slams, and so much more. Deaf people are represented in all walks of life. They are pilots, painters, teachers, record-breaking swimmers, and the list goes on. And a Deaf person has served as a member of a provincial legislature.
Yet there’s a serious need for sign language in public spaces. Equity, diversity, and inclusion don’t apply only to gender, sexuality, and race. They also apply to people with different abilities, including those who are Deaf. Whether you’re interested in learning ASL or LSQ, there’s a fascinating world of language and culture awaiting you.
I would love to hear about your experiences with sign language. Please leave me a comment.
