A field guide to signed languages
Everything Sign Language
Stories, history, and culture from Auslan, ASL, BSL, LSF and beyond.
Editor's pick
More Than Just Auslan: Australia's Rich History of Indigenous Sign Languages
While Auslan is the most widely known sign language in Australia, the continent has a much deeper history of signed communication. Discover the fascinating world of traditional Indigenous sign languages and their unique place in Australia's linguistic landscape.
May 31, 2026
Latest
4 stories
More Than Just a Voice: The Vital Role of Educational Interpreters
Educational interpreters are crucial members of the educational team, facilitating communication and language access for Deaf students. Explore the complexities and importance of their role.
May 31, 2026
The Art of Sign Language Storytelling: Preserving Deaf Folklore and Traditions
Storytelling is a universal human experience, and for the Deaf community, it takes on a unique and visually captivating form. Sign language storytelling is a cherished tradition that combines gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to convey tales, myths, and personal ex
Feb 17, 2025
How Sign Language is Used in Emergency Situations
In emergency situations, clear and effective communication can mean the difference between life and death. For Deaf individuals, sign language is a vital tool for accessing information, seeking help, and staying safe. From natural disasters to medical emergencies, sign language p
Feb 1, 2025
The History of Sign Language in Film and Television
Sign language has a rich and evolving history in film and television, reflecting broader changes in how society views Deaf individuals and their culture. From early stereotypes to groundbreaking representation, the portrayal of sign language and Deaf characters has come a long wa
Jan 31, 2025
Popular
4 storiesMore Than Just a Voice: The Vital Role of Educational Interpreters
Educational interpreters are crucial members of the educational team, facilitating communication and language access for Deaf students. Explore the complexities and importance of their role.
May 31, 2026
The Art of Sign Language Storytelling: Preserving Deaf Folklore and Traditions
Storytelling is a universal human experience, and for the Deaf community, it takes on a unique and visually captivating form. Sign language storytelling is a cherished tradition that combines gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to convey tales, myths, and personal ex
Feb 17, 2025
How Sign Language is Used in Emergency Situations
In emergency situations, clear and effective communication can mean the difference between life and death. For Deaf individuals, sign language is a vital tool for accessing information, seeking help, and staying safe. From natural disasters to medical emergencies, sign language p
Feb 1, 2025
The History of Sign Language in Film and Television
Sign language has a rich and evolving history in film and television, reflecting broader changes in how society views Deaf individuals and their culture. From early stereotypes to groundbreaking representation, the portrayal of sign language and Deaf characters has come a long wa
Jan 31, 2025
Random reads
4 stories
How do you know what level your Sign Language is? Fluent?
For decades, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) has served as a standardized roadmap for measuring language proficiency in spoken languages. But what about sign languages, those vibrant tapestries of gestures and expressions that transcend the limitat
Dec 17, 2023
Careers for Sign Language Learners: How Your Skills Can Make a Difference
Learning sign language (BSL, ASL, NZSL, Auslan, LASL, etc) opens doors to a wide range of rewarding careers, from direct roles like interpreting and education support to enhancing professions like healthcare, counseling, and even business. Whether you’re passionate about working
Jan 29, 2025
Decoding Egyptian Sign Language (ESL): Unveiling Egypt's Unique Communication Tapestry
Egyptian Sign Language (ESL) plays a pivotal role in fostering communication within Egypt's deaf and hard of hearing community, weaving a unique tapestry of expression and connection. In this exploration, we'll uncover the origins, influences, usage, governmental recognition, and
Dec 14, 2023
Breaking Barriers: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Leaders in Government Around the World
There have been a few notable Deaf or Hard of Hearing (HoH) individuals who have served in high-level government positions, including members of Congress and parliamentarians around the world. While the number is small, their presence is significant in breaking barriers and advoc
Jan 29, 2025