Exploring the Diversity of Signed Languages: Regional Dialects and Ethnic Influences
As a seasoned signer who lost my hearing at a young age, I have had a front-row seat to the evolution and diversity of signed languages. The journey from my early days with ad-hoc signs to the rich and varied linguistic landscape I witness today is both a testament to resilience and a fascinating exploration of human communication. This article delves into the world of signed languages, focusing on the distinct regional dialects and ethnic variations that enrich our understanding of this unique form of expression.
A Personal Journey through Sign Language Evolution
Back in the 1970s, when I first lost my hearing, sign language was significantly more limited. The scarcity of formal resources and reliance on a combination of signs from family members who were hearing meant that my early signs were often improvised. Interestingly, my parents, who were brought up in the "glory days" post-war USA, were from different cultural backgrounds—my father from Scotland and my mother from Ireland. Despite their diverse heritage, the necessity to communicate in a predominantly English-speaking environment led my father to push for English as the language of instruction, even discouraging the use of the native language, Gaelic.
My journey into ASL (American Sign Language) was pivotal. Initially, I developed my own sign language, which was rooted in the local context. However, as ASL became more prevalent, I observed it was different from what I had been using. The arrival of the Gallaudet ASL dictionary and the formation of ASL as a structured language marked significant milestones in my life. Although I, like many of my generation, initially resisted change, I eventually adapted to these new developments.
The Multifaceted Nature of Signed Languages
It's a common misconception that there is only one sign language globally. In reality, signed languages are diverse and varied, reflecting the rich tapestry of human cultures and regions. Every signed language, whether ASL, BSL (British Sign Language), or any other, has its own regional dialects and ethnic variations, similar to spoken languages.
Regional Dialects in Signed Languages
Firstly, signed languages exhibit regional dialects, much like their oral counterparts. These regional variations can be observed in speed, style, and specific signs used. For instance, Yankees (Americans from the northeastern part of the country) tend to sign faster than those from the South. Similarly, there are distinct regional variants for words like "birthday," "computer," "Halloween," and "strawberry." These regional differences are fascinating and add a layer of cultural richness to signed languages.
Ethnic Variations in Signed Languages
Ethnic variations are another facet of signed languages, particularly evident in the African-American community. African-Americans, for example, are more likely to use two-handed variants for signs where one-handed variants are commonly used by others. This can be seen in words for which there are both one-handed and two-handed signs. These ethnic variations not only showcase the diversity within signed languages but also highlight the unique cultural expressions of different communities.
College Slang and Jargon
Just like college students in the oral world, deaf students also have their own slang and jargon. An example from my own experience is the sign for "anthropology." During my college days, deaf students would use a sign that was based on three English words—“ant,” “throw,” and “apology.” This created the sign "bugtosssorry," which was commonly shortened to "bugtoss." This slang was so widespread that I learned the proper sign for "anthropology" only after graduating and moving to a different city.
Conclusion
The world of signed languages is vast and complex, with its own unique features such as regional dialects and ethnic variations. These differences reflect the diverse cultural and linguistic heritage of deaf communities around the world. As technology and resources continue to evolve, the accessibility of signed languages is improving, making it easier for everyone to engage in and learn these fascinating forms of communication.
Understanding and embracing the regional and ethnic variations in signed languages not only enriches our cultural understanding but also enhances the global community's ability to communicate effectively and inclusively.
Stay tuned for more insightful articles on sign language and its fascinating aspects!