Deaf Culture – Info Cafe

Sign language is a fully developed, natural language primarily used by people who are Deaf or hearing impaired. It relies on hand signs, visual gestures, body language, facial expressions, and other non-verbal cues such as head movements to convey meaning and emotion. More than just a communication tool, sign language holds deep cultural significance within Deaf communities around the world. Like spoken languages, sign languages follow distinct grammatical rules and are shaped by culture and history.

Contrary to popular belief, there is no single universal sign language. Instead, there are over 300 distinct sign languages worldwide (National Geographic), each with its own unique vocabulary, grammar, and cultural identity. For example, American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) are entirely different languages, despite being used in English-speaking countries. In fact, ASL shares more similarities with French Sign Language (LSF) due to historical influences in Deaf education. Regional dialects and variations also exist within each of these languages. Additionally, there is International Sign, a simplified, non-standardized form of sign language used in global conferences and cross-cultural settings. While useful, it is not considered a full language.

Sign languages are used by an estimated 70 million people around the world as their primary means of communication. These languages are a reflection of cultural diversity and play a vital role in fostering inclusion, identity, and community among Deaf populations. However, the level of official recognition and access to services varies widely between countries. Some, like the Netherlands, have granted their national sign language legal status, while others still lack formal recognition. In the United States and parts of Canada, American Sign Language (ASL) is the most commonly used sign language. Estimates of ASL users range from 500,000 to 2 million (un.org), depending on the source. Broader estimates suggest that between 2 to 3 million Americans use sign language in some capacity (Gitnux Market Data). ASL is also the third most studied language in U.S. higher education, after Spanish and French, indicating growing interest and awareness (gallaudet.edu). ASL itself has regional and cultural variations, including Black ASL, which developed within historically segregated schools for the Deaf, and Tactile ASL, used by Deaf-blind individuals. These variations reflect the rich cultural dimensions within ASL and its users.

While exact numbers are difficult to pinpoint, roughly 2.5% of Iowa’s residents were reported to use sign language in some form as of 2017. This figure includes both native users and those using it for professional or personal communication. Iowa offers multiple educational and community-based opportunities to learn and engage with ASL. The Iowa School for the Deaf offers free and low-cost ASL classes, both in-person and online. ASL coursework, clubs, and cultural outreach events like Deaf Awareness Week are offered at universities, including the University of Iowa and Iowa State. Locally, Scott Community College offers a Deaf Studies Certificate as well as an AAS Degree in American Sign Language – English Interpreting. Online and self-guided platforms, including apps, are also learning avenues that are readily available.

In Scott County, American Sign Language is present both educationally (as mentioned above) and culturally. Although specific usage numbers for Scott County are not readily available, the presence of accredited interpreter training and educational resources indicates awareness, accessibility, and a growing support network for sign language learners and the local Deaf community. Residents also have access to a range of learning options including university outreach, online platforms, and community-based events.

Check out some of the FREE Sign Language resources available to you at The Library. See our online catalog or ask a Librarian for more resources.

FOR A BEGINNER INTRODUCTION TO SIGN LANGUAGE: