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Signing Black in America

27 minutes, 19 seconds
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Black man glances to the side and sits with his left palm held up vertically and his right pointer finger touching it. Rows of desks and chairs are in background.

This is the first documentary about Black ASL: the unique dialect of American Sign Language (ASL) that developed within historically segregated African American Deaf communities. Black ASL today conveys an identity and sense of belonging that mirrors spoken language varieties of the African American hearing community. The program highlights the different uses of space, hand use, directional movement, and facial expression, which are ways that Black ASL distinguishes itself as a vibrant dialect of American Sign Language. The African American Deaf community is now embracing their unique variety as a symbol of solidarity and a vital part of their identity.

Media Details

Runtime: 27 minutes, 19 seconds

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Viewer Comments

  • Tiny default profile photo
    Cynthia S. (Edgewater, FL)
    February 8th, 2023 at 10:48 AM

    Signing Black in America gives a history and perspective that many students and adults have never thought of. The conversations that ensue after watching this are so rich and moving. I recommend this material be viewed by everyone. It is such an enriching piece of media and Black Deaf history.

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