Is there anything that hearing people learning American Sign Language do that offends or bothers deaf people?

The primary issue often encountered is the use of Signed English, which involves signing English word order rather than adhering to the natural syntax of American Sign Language (ASL). Additionally, a lack of proper facial expressions and body language can also be problematic. These factors can lead to communication barriers and misunderstandings, thereby breeding frustration and offense amongst the deaf community.

Experiences and Observations

My interactions with the deaf community have generally been met with a generous ethos of inclusivity. Most deaf individuals are understanding of language-learning mistakes by their hearing counterparts. However, it is crucial to approach their language and culture with respect. What truly offends them is a lack of respect towards their language and culture. Deaf people often feel disrespected when hearing people take a condescending or patronizing attitude.

Common Offenses

“I want to help the poor deaf people.”: This attitude often comes from a place of pity, which can be insulting. Deaf people are not objects to be pitied; they are individuals with their own hustles and struggles. Assumption of Inequity: Suggestions such as, “I’m hearing and you’re deaf, so I am automatically smarter than you” further reinforce the belief that hearing people are superior, which is counterproductive. Arbitrary Sign Creation: It’s not just about correctness; it’s about respecting a collaborative community. Making up one's own signs without consulting the deaf community or seeking proper validation can be seen as disrespectful. Exaggerated Claims of Competence: Signing for a few weeks and then claiming to interpret in a hospital is a serious overstatement. Training and practice are essential before stepping into such critical roles. Bothersome Intrusions: Expecting deaf people to hold conversations at bay just to allow ASL students to practice is another common frustration. Deaf individuals should not be used as live practice subjects, and their privacy should be respected.

Professional Enthusiasm and Sensitivity

Professional ASL interpreters are trained to bridge the communication gap between the hearing and the deaf. Their efforts to clarify and explain the significance of signs are highly appreciated. While deaf people might not be overly picky, they do appreciate efforts that are respectful and genuinely inclusive. Errors in ASL are often made due to the complexity and richness of the language, rather than a lack of ability. Hand signs are intuitive and, with proper training, can be quickly understood.

Respecting Deaf Culture

Another concern that arises is the potential for hearing people to undermine the authority and traditions within the deaf community. For example, name-signs are given by the local deaf community to avoid duplications, showing the importance of community consensus. Respect for these traditions is crucial, as it supports the solidarity and cohesion within deaf culture.

Personal Reflections

Personal experiences and reads highlight the importance of respecting ASL's evolution and context. Signs for modern concepts, such as computer programming, have been created within a specific cultural and historical context of the 1970s. Modern deaf community members might not always agree with these signs and might want to innovate or adapt them to better reflect contemporary usage.

Advice for Those Learning ASL

If a situation is described as advanced or fast-signing, avoid asking for repetitions. It's part of the experience. Begging for signing-challenges is likely to result in simple and direct responses, like "TRAIN GONE SORRY," which is also acceptable in very informal settings. When participating in events with ASL students, understand that deaf individuals are aware of the nature of the event and can handle it accordingly.

Ultimately, learning ASL is a journey that requires respect, humility, and a genuine understanding of the deaf community and their unique language and traditions.