American Sign Language (ASL) is a visual language where linguistic information is processed through the eyes. Hand shape, placement and movement, along with facial expressions and body language, are all essential in conveying meaning.
Contrary to common belief, signing is not universal. Each country has its own sign language, and even within the U.S., ASL has regional dialects, much like spoken languages. ASL also has its own grammar and syntax, evolving over time as a living language.
Primarily used in the U.S. and parts of Canada, ASL is widely recognized as a language option for high school and college credit across the country.
For the first time, the Genesee District Library (GDL) will offer an “Intro to ASL” class on March 15 at the Grand Blanc-McFarlen Branch. Open to teens and adults, the session will be led by instructors from OpenSpot Theatre, an organization known for its inclusive musical theatre programs designed for students with disabilities, seniors and anyone looking for a new creative outlet.
To learn more about the upcoming class, My City spoke with OpenSpot Co-Founder Katie Mann.
MC: What key skills will participants learn in this introductory ASL session?
KM: Students will learn basic introductory words and signs. We’ll laugh and do activities designed to help the vocabulary “stick in our brain” all the better.
MC: Is this class designed for absolute beginners, or should attendees have some prior knowledge?
KM: All are welcome! Our instructors have been doing this for years and will meet you where you are.
MC: How interactive will the session be? Will attendees have the opportunity to practice signing with others?
KM: It will be very interactive! Because we’re a theatre company, you can expect some silliness, razzmatazz and fun interactiveness at your comfort level.
MC: Who will be teaching the class, and what is their background in ASL?
KM: We will have two instructors: Peter Verhaeghe, a special education teacher, and Rosina Switras, a member of the Deaf community with extensive experience in ASL translation and stage performance, bridging the gap between spoken and signed languages.
MC: Why do you think it’s important for more people to learn ASL?
KM: Learning languages always promotes togetherness! In this case, it also helps promote inclusivity, which makes the world a better place. As the preschool song goes, “The more we get together, the happier we’ll be…”
For those interested in taking their first step into the world of ASL, this class offers a fun and welcoming introduction – no experience necessary!
For more information about this class, visit
thegdl.org/libraryevents/intro-to-asl
