what is asl mean
American Sign Language, commonly known as ASL, is a visual language used by the deaf and hard of hearing community in the United States and parts of Canada. It is a complex and dynamic language that has its own distinct grammar and syntax, separate from spoken languages. ASL is a vital means of communication for those who are unable to hear, and it is an essential part of the deaf culture.
History of ASL
The origins of ASL can be traced back to the early 19th century, when Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, a hearing minister, met a young deaf girl named Alice Cogswell. Impressed by her intelligence and potential, Gallaudet convinced her father to allow him to take Alice to Europe to study at the prestigious Institut National des Jeunes Sourds de Paris, a school for the deaf. There, Gallaudet met and studied with renowned French deaf educator Laurent Clerc, who used French Sign Language (LSF) as the primary mode of instruction.
Upon their return to the United States, Gallaudet and Clerc established the first permanent school for the deaf in Hartford, Connecticut in 1817, known today as the American School for the Deaf. It was here that LSF was combined with the manual alphabet used by the deaf community in Martha’s Vineyard to create a new language – ASL. This fusion of languages laid the foundation for the development of ASL as we know it today.
In the early days, ASL was primarily used in educational settings and was not widely accepted by the hearing community. In fact, it wasn’t until the 1960s and 1970s that ASL gained recognition as a legitimate language. This was largely due to the efforts of the Deaf President Now (DPN) movement, where students at Gallaudet University, a renowned institution for the deaf, protested against the appointment of yet another hearing president. The movement successfully led to the first deaf president being elected, and it brought much-needed attention and recognition to the deaf community and the importance of ASL as a language.
Structure and Grammar of ASL
ASL is a visual-spatial language, meaning it relies heavily on hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements. These components are known as signs and are used to convey meaning and communicate ideas. The structure of ASL is based on a combination of handshape, movement, and location of the signs, as well as the use of facial expressions and body language.
One of the most notable features of ASL is its use of classifiers, which are specialized signs that represent objects, actions, or locations. These classifiers are used to provide more detailed and descriptive information in a sentence. For example, a classifier can be used to show the size, shape, or movement of an object, such as a car driving down the road.
Another important aspect of ASL is its use of non-manual markers, which are facial expressions and body movements that convey grammatical and syntactical information. These markers are crucial in ASL as they can change the meaning of a sign or indicate the tone and emotion of a statement.
ASL also has its own distinct grammar and sentence structure. Unlike English, which follows a subject-verb-object (SVO) structure, ASL follows a topic-comment (TC) structure. This means that the topic of a sentence is first introduced, followed by the comment or information about the topic. For example, in English, we would say “I am going to the store,” while in ASL, the sentence structure would be “Store, I go.” This difference in structure is important to understand when learning ASL, as it can be confusing for those who are used to speaking English.
Benefits of Learning ASL
The benefits of learning ASL extend far beyond just being able to communicate with the deaf and hard of hearing community. For hearing individuals, learning ASL can open up a whole new world of connections and understanding. It allows us to bridge the communication gap and connect with others in a meaningful way.
For those who are deaf or hard of hearing, learning ASL can have a profound impact on their quality of life. It provides them with a means to communicate with others, express their thoughts and feelings, and participate fully in society. ASL also plays a crucial role in the education of deaf children, as it allows them to learn and develop language skills in their own natural way.
Moreover, learning ASL has been shown to have cognitive benefits for both hearing and deaf individuals. Studies have found that learning and using ASL can improve memory, spatial awareness, and critical thinking skills. It can also enhance hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, making it a valuable skill to have for children and adults alike.
ASL in the Digital Age
In recent years, the internet and social media have played a significant role in the spread and popularity of ASL. With the rise of video-sharing platforms like youtube -reviews”>YouTube , more and more people have access to ASL lessons, tutorials, and communities. This has led to a growing interest in learning ASL, not just for those who are deaf or hard of hearing, but for anyone who is curious about the language and wants to learn more.
The use of technology has also made it easier for the deaf community to communicate with each other and the hearing world. Video relay services, video remote interpreting, and video chat apps have made it possible for deaf individuals to communicate with others in ASL, regardless of their location. This has also opened up employment opportunities for ASL interpreters and has made it easier for deaf individuals to participate in virtual meetings, interviews, and conferences.
Challenges and Controversies of ASL
Despite the increasing acceptance and recognition of ASL, there are still challenges and controversies surrounding the language. One of the main issues is the ongoing debate about whether ASL should be considered a separate language or a mere visual representation of English. This has led to a divide within the deaf community, with some advocating for ASL to be recognized as an independent language, while others believe it is simply a modified form of English.
Another challenge for ASL is the lack of resources and education available. While ASL is recognized as a language in the United States, it is not widely taught in schools and is not considered a foreign language. This can make it difficult for those who are interested in learning ASL to find resources and classes.
Moreover, there is still a lack of understanding and acceptance of ASL in the hearing world. Many people are not aware of the linguistic complexities of ASL and may view it as a simplified form of communication. This can lead to misunderstandings and discrimination, making it more challenging for the deaf community to advocate for their rights and be fully integrated into society.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, ASL is a vibrant and complex language that is an essential part of the deaf culture. It is a vital means of communication for the deaf and hard of hearing community, and it has its own distinct grammar, syntax, and structure. Learning ASL not only benefits the deaf community but also has cognitive and social benefits for hearing individuals. With the rise of technology, ASL has become more accessible, and its popularity continues to grow. However, there are still challenges and controversies surrounding the language, highlighting the need for continued education and understanding of ASL and the deaf community.
memorial day theme
Memorial Day is an important holiday in the United States, observed on the last Monday of May every year. It is a time to remember and honor the brave men and women who have lost their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces. This day is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by these heroes to protect the freedom and values of our country. It is also a time for reflection and gratitude towards those who have given their lives for our nation. As we approach Memorial Day, it is essential to understand the significance of this holiday and how it has evolved over the years.
The origins of Memorial Day can be traced back to the Civil War, which ravaged the country from 1861 to 1865. This war took the lives of more than 600,000 soldiers, making it the deadliest conflict in American history. As the war ended, communities across the country started to honor those who had died in battle. The first known observance of a “Decoration Day” was in Waterloo, New York, in 1866. The town’s residents organized a ceremony to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and flags. This tradition soon spread across the country, and by the late 1860s, many states had established their own Decoration Day.
However, it was not until after World War I that the holiday evolved into what we know today as Memorial Day. In 1915, a Georgia teacher named Moina Michael came up with the idea of wearing red poppies on Memorial Day to honor fallen soldiers. She was inspired by the poem “In Flanders Fields,” written by Canadian Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, which described the red poppies growing on the graves of fallen soldiers in Belgium. The American Legion adopted the poppy as their official symbol of remembrance in 1921, and it is still a common sight on Memorial Day.
In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a federal holiday and was moved to the last Monday in May to create a three-day weekend. This change was made to create a long weekend for families to spend time together and to boost tourism. However, this also meant that the true meaning of the holiday was often overshadowed by backyard barbecues and retail sales. In recent years, there has been a push to return Memorial Day to its original date of May 30th, to honor the tradition and significance of the holiday.
On this day, many Americans visit cemeteries and memorials to pay their respects to the fallen soldiers. The National Memorial Day Concert, held on the west lawn of the United States Capitol, is also a popular event. This concert brings together renowned musicians, actors, and military personnel to honor and remember the sacrifices made by our heroes. Another tradition is the National Moment of Remembrance, where Americans pause for a moment of silence at 3 pm local time, to remember and reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day.
One of the most iconic ways to honor fallen soldiers on Memorial Day is by displaying the American flag. Many people fly the flag at half-staff from dawn until noon, to honor those who have died in service. After noon, the flag is raised to full-staff until sunset, symbolizing the resilience and determination of the living. It is also customary to place flags on the graves of soldiers, a tradition that dates back to the Civil War. The American flag is a powerful symbol of our nation’s unity and the sacrifices made by our soldiers to protect it.
Apart from honoring the fallen, Memorial Day is also a time to remember and appreciate the sacrifices made by the families of the soldiers. These families have to endure the pain of losing a loved one and the reality of a life without them. Many organizations and communities across the country provide support and comfort to these families, especially on Memorial Day. It is a reminder that the sacrifices made by our soldiers extend beyond their own lives and affect their families as well.
Memorial Day also serves as a reminder of the ongoing conflicts and wars that have taken the lives of many soldiers. It is an opportunity to reflect on the cost of war and to honor the brave men and women who continue to serve our country. It is also a reminder of the importance of supporting our veterans and their families, who have sacrificed so much for our country. Many organizations provide support and resources for veterans and their families, and Memorial Day is a great time to get involved and show our appreciation for their service.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of using Memorial Day as a time to honor all those who have died, not just soldiers. This includes victims of terrorist attacks, natural disasters, and other tragedies. While this is a noble sentiment, it is essential to remember that Memorial Day is a day specifically set aside to honor fallen soldiers. There are other holidays, such as Veterans Day and Independence Day, to honor and remember all those who have served and sacrificed for our country.
In conclusion, Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor the brave men and women who have given their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by these heroes and to show our gratitude for their service. While it is also a time for family gatherings and barbecues, it is crucial to remember the true meaning of this holiday. As we enjoy our long weekend, let us not forget the true purpose of Memorial Day and the sacrifices made by our soldiers to protect our country and our freedom.