We like to try and improve ourselves and be more inclusive. That is why some of our members like to get together and practice and teach each other American Sign Language (ASL). All levels are welcomed to come. If you are new and want to learn or you are an experienced interpreter and just want to sharpen your skills you can join us.
If you would like to join us for one of our study groups. Check out our Meetup page to see when the next one is.
American Sign Language (ASL) is the fourth most common language in the United States, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). Common as that might seem, it is not very common outside of the Deaf community. Some deaf people do not sign, and most hard of hearing (termed HOH in the deaf world) rely on other methods to aid communication, such as hearing aids. So why would the average American learn sign language if they did not have to?
1. Hearing loss is more common than you may think. As many as 28 million Americans have some degree of hearing loss.
2. Make new friends and help communicate with members of our community and the public at our events.
3. Become bilingual or multilingual and increase cognitive functioning. It’s exercise for the brain!
4. Be able to have private conversations in public or across the protest site.
5. Prepare for the future. You never know when this skill could come in handy! Imagine being able to help a lost child who can sign but can’t speak.