FAQS
WHAT IS AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE?
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American Sign Language (ASL) is a complete, natural language that serves as the primary mode of communication for many deaf and hard-of-hearing people in the United States and parts of Canada. ASL uses a combination of handshapes, movements, facial expressions, and body language to convey meaning.
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American Sign Language is not universal sign language. Countries and regions have sign languages, such as British Sign Language (BSL) or French Sign Language (LSF).
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Key aspects of ASL include: Grammar and Syntax, Visual Nature, and Cultural Connection.
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HOW CAN I LEARN ASL?
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Learning ASL can be a rewarding experience. You can take classes offered at many community Colleges or Universities as part of their curriculum.
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Local Deaf Organizations offer ASL classes or workshops in your area.
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There are online courses that offer platforms such as ASL Connect, and Lifeprint.
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ASL Apps like SignSchool, ASL Dictionary, or The ASL App provide interactive ways to learn and practice.
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Watch Videos on YouTube channels like Bill Vicars' ASL Univeristiy.
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Look for Deaf creators on platforms like TikTok and Instagram who share ASL tips.
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Practice with others or join local or virtual Deaf meetups or ASL practice groups.
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Use platforms like Meetup or Facebook to find ASL-related events.
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Immerse yourself by attending Deaf events, such as silent dinners, coffee chats, or cultural festivals.
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Watch TV shows or movies with ASL, such as Switched at Birth, CODA, Mr. Holland Opus, Love is Never Silent, or Helen Keller.
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Use flashcards and practice daily by creating cards for vocabulary practice and fingerspelling.
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Dedicate time each day to practice signing and building your skills.
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Learn about Deaf culture and how essential for meaningful communication is. Read books, watch documentaries, and engage with the Deaf community.
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Hire an ASL Tutor if you prefer one-on-one guidance. Many offer in-person or virtual sessions.
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CULTURE AWARENESS
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Learning ASL deepens your understanding of Deaf culture, prompting empathy, respect, and inclusivity.
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Learning ASL helps you connect with a wider range of people and make meaningful friendships. Learning the process of learning ASL fosters understanding and patience towards others.
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By knowing ASL, you can advocate for accessibility and inclusion in your community and workplace. It offers a different way of thinking and expressing ideas, enriching your overall worldview. Knowing ASL can be invaluable in situations where verbal communication isn't possible, such as emergencies or noisy environments.
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WHAT MAKES ASL CHALLENGING?​
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Different grammar and syntax, visual language, vocabulary and fingerspelling.
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There are no verb conjugations or articles; you can start using basic signs and fingerspelling right away to communicate simple ideas.
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Interactive and visual learning, community support.
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ASL may feel challenging at first, but with dedication and consistent practice, most learners find it highly rewarding.
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Laws
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Overview: The ADA is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and public accommodations.
ASL Relevance: Requires businesses, government agencies, and public institutions to provide reasonable accommodations, including qualified ASL interpreters, for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. Ensures effective communication in settings like healthcare, legal proceedings, and education.
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INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION ACT (IDEA)
Overview: IDEA ensures that children with disabilities, including those who are deaf and hard of hearing, receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE).
ASL Relevance: Schools must provide ASL interpreters and other accommodations for students who use ASL. Encourages the inclusion of ASL as a part of individualized education programs (IEPs).
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REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973 (SECTION 504)
Overview: This law prohibits discrimination based on disability in programs and activities receiving federal funding.
ASL Relevance: Requires federally funded institutions to provide ASL interpreters and ensure accessibility for Deaf individuals.
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TITLE VI OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS ACT OF 1964
https://www.justice.gov/crt/fcs/TitleVI
Overview: Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in federally assisted programs.
ASL Relevance: This applies when Deaf individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) require ASL services to ensure equal access.
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​ STATE-SPECIFIC ASL RECOGNITION LAWS
https://rid.org/programs/gap/state-by-state-regulations/
Many states officially recognized ASL as a language and allowed it to fulfill foreign language requirements in schools and universities. Some states have additional laws ensuring access to ASL interpreters and services.
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AFFORDABLE CARE ACT (ACA)
https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/affordable-care-act/
Overview: Requires healthcare providers to ensure effective communication with patients, including providing ASL interpreters when necessary.
ASL Relevance: Protect the rights of Deaf individuals to access medical care without barrier
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VIDEO RELAY SERVICES (VRS) AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT​
https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/video-relay-services
Overview: The Telecommunications Act ensures access to communication technologies for individuals with disabilities.
ASL Relevance: Supports services like Video Relay Services (VRS), which allow Deaf individuals to communicate via video calls with ASL interpreters.
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WORKFORCE INNOVATION AND OPPORTUNITY ACT (WIOA)
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/wioa
​Overview: Focuses on improving employment opportunities for people with disabilities. ​
ASL Relevance: Promotes the use of ASL interpreters and accessible training programs for Deaf job seekers.
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These laws collectively protect the rights of ASL users, ensuring equal access to education, employment, healthcare, and public services.