Who is ASL?

2021-05-20

who

ASL stands for American Sign Language, a complete, natural language that has the same linguistic properties as spoken languages, with grammar that differs from English. It is expressed by movements of the hands and face. It is used by members of the Deaf community in the United States and Canada, and by some hearing people who work with or live with Deaf people.

ASL has its own vocabulary, grammar, and syntax. It is not simply a system of gestures or a code for English. ASL is a living language that is constantly evolving and changing. It is used in all aspects of life, including education, employment, government, and social activities.

ASL is a beautiful and expressive language. It is a way for Deaf people to communicate with each other and with the hearing world. It is also a way for hearing people to learn about Deaf culture and to appreciate the richness and diversity of the Deaf community.

Who is ASL?

ASL stands for American Sign Language, a complete and natural language used by the Deaf community in the United States and Canada.

Native language of Deaf Americans
Complete and natural language with its own grammar and syntax
Used in all aspects of life
Expressive and beautiful language
Official language of the Deaf community
Recognized by the U.S. government
Taught in schools and universities
Used in media and entertainment
Growing in popularity among hearing people

ASL is a vibrant and dynamic language that is constantly evolving. It is a language that is rich in culture and history, and it is a language that is essential for the Deaf community.

Native language of Deaf Americans

ASL is the native language of Deaf Americans, meaning it is the first language they acquire and the language they use to communicate with their families and community. ASL is a complete and natural language, with its own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. It is not simply a system of gestures or a code for English.

ASL is a visual language, meaning it is expressed through movements of the hands, face, and body. This makes it a very expressive language, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and meanings. ASL also has a rich vocabulary, with signs for everything from everyday objects to abstract concepts.

ASL is a living language, meaning it is constantly evolving and changing. New signs are created all the time, and existing signs may change their meaning over time. This is a natural process that happens in all languages.

ASL is an important part of Deaf culture. It is the language that Deaf people use to communicate with each other, to share their culture, and to pass on their traditions. ASL is also a way for Deaf people to connect with the hearing world.

ASL is a beautiful and vibrant language that is used by a diverse and dynamic community. It is a language that is rich in history, culture, and expression.

Complete and natural language with its own grammar and syntax

ASL is a complete and natural language, meaning it has all the features of a spoken language, including its own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. This means that ASL can be used to express anything that can be expressed in a spoken language.

Grammar: ASL has its own unique grammar, which is different from the grammar of English and other spoken languages. For example, ASL uses a different word order than English, and it does not have the same tense system.

Details: ASL grammar is based on the use of space, movement, and facial expressions. Signs can be combined in different ways to create different meanings, and the location of a sign in space can also change its meaning.
Syntax: ASL also has its own syntax, which is the way that words are combined to form sentences. ASL syntax is different from the syntax of English and other spoken languages.

Details: ASL syntax is based on the use of classifiers, which are handshapes that represent different types of objects or actions. Classifiers can be used to indicate the size, shape, and location of objects, and they can also be used to indicate the relationship between different objects.
Vocabulary: ASL has its own vocabulary, which is the set of words that are used in the language. ASL vocabulary is different from the vocabulary of English and other spoken languages.

Details: ASL vocabulary includes signs for a wide range of concepts, including everyday objects, abstract ideas, and cultural references. New signs are constantly being created to keep up with the changing world.
Natural language: ASL is a natural language, meaning that it is not an artificial language that was created for a specific purpose. ASL developed naturally over time as a way for Deaf people to communicate with each other.

Details: ASL is a living language that is constantly evolving. New signs are created all the time, and existing signs may change their meaning over time. This is a natural process that happens in all languages.

ASL is a complete, natural language that is capable of expressing anything that can be expressed in a spoken language. It is a beautiful and expressive language that is used by a diverse and dynamic community.

Used in all aspects of life

ASL is used in all aspects of life by Deaf Americans. It is used in education, employment, government, and social activities. Deaf children are taught in ASL from a young age, and there are many colleges and universities that offer ASL programs. Deaf people also use ASL to communicate with each other at work, in government meetings, and in social settings.

Here are some specific examples of how ASL is used in all aspects of life:

Education: ASL is the primary language of instruction in many schools for Deaf children. Deaf students learn all academic subjects in ASL, including math, science, history, and English. ASL is also used in colleges and universities that offer ASL programs.
Employment: Deaf people work in a variety of jobs, including teachers, lawyers, doctors, engineers, and businesspeople. ASL is used in the workplace to communicate with colleagues, clients, and customers.
Government: ASL is recognized as an official language in the United States and Canada. This means that Deaf people have the right to use ASL in government meetings and proceedings. ASL interpreters are also available to provide communication access for Deaf people in government settings.
Social activities: Deaf people use ASL to communicate with each other in social settings, such as at Deaf clubs, social events, and religious services. ASL is also used in the media, including on TV shows, movies, and DVDs.

ASL is an essential part of Deaf culture and is used in all aspects of life by Deaf Americans.

ASL is a vibrant and dynamic language that is used by a diverse and growing community. It is a language that is rich in history, culture, and expression, and it is a language that is essential for the Deaf community.

Expressive and beautiful language

ASL is a very expressive and beautiful language. It is a visual language, meaning it is expressed through movements of the hands, face, and body. This allows for a wide range of emotions and meanings to be conveyed. For example, the signer can use different facial expressions to show happiness, sadness, anger, or surprise. The signer can also use different handshapes and movements to create signs that are visually appealing and meaningful.

Here are some specific examples of how ASL is an expressive and beautiful language:

Facial expressions: ASL uses a wide range of facial expressions to convey emotions and meanings. For example, a smile can be used to show happiness, a frown can be used to show sadness, and a furrowed brow can be used to show anger or confusion.
Handshapes and movements: ASL uses a variety of handshapes and movements to create signs. The handshapes can be used to represent different objects or concepts, and the movements can be used to show how those objects or concepts are related to each other. For example, the sign for "tree" is made by holding the hand up with the fingers spread out, and the sign for "wind" is made by waving the hand back and forth. When these two signs are combined, they can be used to create a beautiful and expressive sign for "tree blowing in the wind."
Body movement: ASL also uses body movement to convey meaning. For example, a signer may lean forward to show interest or lean back to show disinterest. A signer may also use their body to create space between themselves and another person, or to show that they are connected to another person.

ASL is a truly unique and beautiful language that allows for a wide range of emotions and meanings to be conveyed. It is a language that is both expressive and aesthetically pleasing.

Official language of the Deaf community

ASL is the official language of the Deaf community in the United States and Canada. This means that it is the language that is used by Deaf people to communicate with each other, to share their culture, and to pass on their traditions. ASL is also the language that is used in Deaf schools, Deaf clubs, and other organizations that serve the Deaf community.

Recognized by government: ASL is recognized as an official language by the governments of the United States and Canada. This means that Deaf people have the right to use ASL in government meetings and proceedings. ASL interpreters are also available to provide communication access for Deaf people in government settings.
Used in education: ASL is the primary language of instruction in many schools for Deaf children. Deaf students learn all academic subjects in ASL, including math, science, history, and English. ASL is also used in colleges and universities that offer ASL programs.
Used in media and entertainment: ASL is used in the media and entertainment industry to create content for Deaf audiences. There are ASL-interpreted TV shows, movies, and DVDs. There are also ASL-based theater productions and performances.
Used in social activities: Deaf people use ASL to communicate with each other in social settings, such as at Deaf clubs, social events, and religious services. ASL is also used in the Deaf community to share stories, jokes, and news.

Recognized by the U.S. government

ASL is recognized as an official language by the government of the United States. This means that Deaf people have the right to use ASL in government meetings and proceedings. ASL interpreters are also available to provide communication access for Deaf people in government settings.

Deaf Interpreters Act of 1975: This law requires federal agencies to provide ASL interpreters for Deaf people who need them in order to communicate effectively. This law also established the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID), which sets standards for ASL interpreters and provides certification.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990: This law prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities, including Deaf people. The ADA requires public entities to provide ASL interpreters and other communication aids for Deaf people in order to ensure that they have equal access to government programs and services.
Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA) of 2010: This law requires that all video programming be captioned. This includes TV shows, movies, DVDs, and online videos. The CVAA also requires that all emergency alerts be accessible to Deaf and hard of hearing people.
Executive Order 13515: This executive order, signed by President Barack Obama in 2010, directs federal agencies to improve access to government programs and services for people with disabilities, including Deaf people. The executive order specifically mentions the importance of providing ASL interpreters and other communication aids for Deaf people.

The U.S. government's recognition of ASL as an official language is a significant step towards ensuring that Deaf people have equal access to government programs and services. It is also a recognition of the importance of ASL as the language of the Deaf community.

Taught in schools and universities

ASL is taught in schools and universities across the United States and Canada. This includes schools for Deaf children, mainstream schools, and colleges and universities. ASL is also taught in community colleges and adult education programs.

Schools for Deaf children: ASL is the primary language of instruction in many schools for Deaf children. Deaf students learn all academic subjects in ASL, including math, science, history, and English. ASL is also used in these schools to teach Deaf students about Deaf culture and history.
Mainstream schools: ASL is also taught in some mainstream schools as a foreign language or as an elective course. This allows hearing students to learn about Deaf culture and to communicate with Deaf people. It also helps to break down barriers between Deaf and hearing people.
Colleges and universities: ASL is taught in many colleges and universities across the United States and Canada. This includes both undergraduate and graduate programs. ASL programs at colleges and universities typically offer courses in ASL grammar, syntax, vocabulary, and culture. Some ASL programs also offer courses in Deaf history, Deaf literature, and Deaf art.
Community colleges and adult education programs: ASL is also taught in community colleges and adult education programs. This allows people of all ages to learn ASL for a variety of reasons, such as personal enrichment, career advancement, or to communicate with a Deaf family member or friend.

The fact that ASL is taught in schools and universities is a sign of the growing recognition of ASL as a legitimate language. It is also a positive step towards creating a more inclusive society where Deaf people have equal access to education and employment opportunities.

Used in media and entertainment

ASL is used in the media and entertainment industry to create content for Deaf audiences. This includes ASL-interpreted TV shows, movies, DVDs, and online videos. There are also ASL-based theater productions and performances.

ASL-interpreted TV shows and movies: There are a growing number of ASL-interpreted TV shows and movies available. This includes both mainstream shows and movies that have been interpreted into ASL, as well as shows and movies that are specifically created for Deaf audiences. ASL-interpreted TV shows and movies can be found on a variety of channels, including public television, cable TV, and streaming services.
ASL-based theater productions and performances: There are also a number of ASL-based theater productions and performances available. These productions are typically created by Deaf artists and performers, and they use ASL as the primary mode of communication. ASL-based theater productions and performances can be found at Deaf theaters, arts centers, and festivals.
Deaf film festivals: There are a number of Deaf film festivals held around the world each year. These festivals showcase films that are made by Deaf filmmakers and that feature ASL. Deaf film festivals are a great opportunity for Deaf people to see themselves represented in the media and to learn about Deaf culture.
Online ASL videos: There are also a number of ASL videos available online. These videos cover a wide range of topics, including Deaf culture, ASL lessons, and ASL stories. Online ASL videos can be found on a variety of websites, including YouTube, Vimeo, and the ASL University website.

The use of ASL in the media and entertainment industry is helping to raise awareness of ASL and Deaf culture. It is also helping to create a more inclusive society where Deaf people have equal access to information and entertainment.

Growing in popularity among hearing people

ASL is growing in popularity among hearing people for a variety of reasons. Some hearing people learn ASL to communicate with Deaf family members or friends. Others learn ASL as a way to connect with Deaf culture. Still others learn ASL simply because they are interested in learning a new language.

Increased awareness of ASL and Deaf culture: In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of ASL and Deaf culture. This is due in part to the increasing visibility of Deaf people in the media and entertainment industry. As more hearing people become aware of ASL and Deaf culture, they are becoming more interested in learning ASL.
ASL as a second language: ASL is becoming increasingly popular as a second language for hearing people. This is because ASL is a beautiful and expressive language that can be used to communicate with a wide range of people. ASL is also a relatively easy language to learn, especially for hearing people who are already familiar with English.
ASL as a career skill: ASL is also becoming a valuable career skill for hearing people. This is because there is a growing demand for ASL interpreters and other professionals who can communicate with Deaf people. ASL interpreters are needed in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, and businesses. They are also needed to provide communication access for Deaf people in government meetings and proceedings.
ASL as a way to connect with Deaf community: Many hearing people are learning ASL as a way to connect with the Deaf community. They want to be able to communicate with Deaf people on their own terms and to learn about Deaf culture firsthand. ASL classes and workshops are a great way for hearing people to meet Deaf people and to learn about Deaf culture.

The growing popularity of ASL among hearing people is a positive sign that society is becoming more inclusive of Deaf people. It is also a sign that ASL is a vibrant and dynamic language that is valued by both Deaf and hearing people.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about ASL:

Question 1: What is ASL?

ASL stands for American Sign Language. It is a complete and natural language that is used by Deaf people in the United States and Canada. ASL has its own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, and it is expressed through movements of the hands, face, and body.

Question 2: Is ASL a real language?

Yes, ASL is a real language. It is not a code for English or a system of gestures. ASL has all the features of a spoken language, including its own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. ASL is also a living language, meaning that it is constantly evolving and changing.

Question 3: How is ASL used?

ASL is used in all aspects of life by Deaf people. It is used in education, employment, government, and social activities. Deaf children are taught in ASL from a young age, and there are many colleges and universities that offer ASL programs. Deaf people also use ASL to communicate with each other at work, in government meetings, and in social settings.

Question 4: Is ASL hard to learn?

ASL is not necessarily hard to learn, but it does take time and practice. The best way to learn ASL is to take a class or workshop from a qualified ASL instructor. There are also many online resources available to help you learn ASL.

Question 5: Why should I learn ASL?

There are many reasons why you might want to learn ASL. Some people learn ASL to communicate with Deaf family members or friends. Others learn ASL as a way to connect with Deaf culture. Still others learn ASL simply because they are interested in learning a new language.

Question 6: Where can I learn ASL?

There are many places where you can learn ASL. You can take a class or workshop at a local community college or adult education center. You can also find ASL classes and workshops online. Additionally, there are many ASL clubs and organizations that offer ASL classes and workshops.

Question 7: What are some tips for learning ASL?

Here are a few tips for learning ASL:

Find a qualified ASL instructor.
Start by learning the basics of ASL grammar and syntax.
Practice signing with Deaf people.
Use ASL in your everyday life.
Be patient and persistent.

Learning ASL can be a rewarding experience. It is a beautiful and expressive language that can open up a whole new world of communication and culture.

Tips

Here are a few tips for learning ASL:

Tip 1: Find a qualified ASL instructor.

The best way to learn ASL is to take a class or workshop from a qualified ASL instructor. A qualified ASL instructor will have the knowledge and experience to teach you the basics of ASL grammar and syntax, and they will also be able to provide you with opportunities to practice signing with Deaf people.

Tip 2: Start by learning the basics of ASL grammar and syntax.

ASL has its own unique grammar and syntax, which is different from the grammar and syntax of English. It is important to learn the basics of ASL grammar and syntax before you start trying to learn ASL vocabulary.

Tip 3: Practice signing with Deaf people.

The best way to learn ASL is to practice signing with Deaf people. This will help you to improve your signing skills and to learn new signs. You can find Deaf people to practice signing with at Deaf clubs, organizations, and events.

Tip 4: Use ASL in your everyday life.

The best way to improve your ASL skills is to use ASL in your everyday life. This means signing with Deaf people whenever you have the opportunity, and it also means using ASL to communicate with hearing people who are learning ASL. The more you use ASL, the better you will become at it.

Tip 5: Be patient and persistent.

Learning ASL takes time and practice. Don't get discouraged if you don't learn it overnight. Just keep practicing and you will eventually reach your goals.

Learning ASL can be a rewarding experience. It is a beautiful and expressive language that can open up a whole new world of communication and culture.

Conclusion

ASL is a beautiful and expressive language that is used by Deaf people in the United States and Canada. It is a complete and natural language with its own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. ASL is used in all aspects of life by Deaf people, including education, employment, government, and social activities.

ASL is a growing language that is becoming increasingly popular among hearing people. This is due to a number of factors, including the increased awareness of ASL and Deaf culture, the growing demand for ASL interpreters and other professionals who can communicate with Deaf people, and the desire of hearing people to learn a new language.

Learning ASL can be a rewarding experience. It is a beautiful and expressive language that can open up a whole new world of communication and culture. If you are interested in learning ASL, there are many resources available to help you get started.

ASL is a vibrant and dynamic language that is essential for the Deaf community. It is a language that is rich in history, culture, and expression. ASL is a language that is worth learning, and it is a language that deserves to be celebrated.

Closing Message:

I hope that this article has helped you to learn more about ASL and the Deaf community. If you are interested in learning more about ASL, I encourage you to take a class or workshop from a qualified ASL instructor. You can also find many resources online to help you learn ASL.