Illustration by Kayden (@kckayden0828) & Kai Xuan (@charlottelkaix)

Do you know any sign languages? Did you know there’s a special day dedicated to celebrating sign languages? With the International Day of Sign Languages on 23 September, let’s dive into the world of sign language and gain a deeper understanding of deaf cultures! 

Sign language, also known as signed languages, is a language in which meaning is conveyed visually rather than audibly. The history of sign languages can be traced back to prehistoric times when gestures were essential for interaction. However, the earliest recorded reference to sign languages comes from the fifth century BC, in Plato's dialogue Cratylus, where Socrates discusses the use of gestures by those who are mute. In 1620, Juan Pablo Bonet published the first manual alphabet system for teaching deaf individuals, which marked a significant step in the development of sign language. In the 18th century, French priest Charles Michel de l'Épée founded the first public school for the deaf in Paris, creating a standardised system known as Old French Sign Language. He combined a manual alphabet with home signs used by children, resulting in a more methodical approach to deaf instruction. Today, there are over 300 different sign languages worldwide, each with its own unique grammar and vocabulary, which will be discussed later. 

Five basic sign language elements make up each sign. These elements are hand shape (the specific configuration of the hand and fingers), movement (the motion of the hands and arms), location (the position of the hands and arms), palm orientation (the direction that the palm is facing), and facial expression. Different elements represent different meanings of the sign. For example, the sign for ‘you’ uses a palm-up orientation, while the sign for ‘me’ uses a palm-down orientation. 

As we mentioned above, there are numerous types of sign languages used worldwide—the most common one being the American Sign Language (ASL). Besides North America, it is widely used in West Africa and parts of Southeast Asia including Malaysia. Different from English, ASL is a whole, natural language with its own grammar and syntax. It is a fully formed language with its own set of norms, not a handwritten transcription of spoken English. Besides ASL, we have British Sign Language (BSL), Australian Sign Language (Auslan), Canadian Sign Language (CSL) and so on. 

Now, let’s introduce some basic ASL signs that can be used in daily life, starting with the sign for ‘hello’ which is simple and easy to learn. Begin by raising your dominant hand in a flat ‘5’ handshape (fingers extended and together) to the side of your forehead, similar to a salute. Then, move your hand outward, away from your face. That’s how you sign ‘hello’! 

Besides that, we have a sign for ‘goodbye’. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘5’ handshape again, bend your fingers down, and then straighten them up again, similar to the motion of waving. 

In conclusion, sign languages are complex, living languages that play a vital role in the lives of deaf people globally. It is a powerful tool for communication, inclusion, and cultural preservation. By learning sign language, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society for all. Moreover, promoting the importance of learning sign language can break down prejudice and discrimination. Together, we can make a better world!