Why should society learn sign language from Deaf instructors?

Is it okay for a Hearing person to teach sign language? 

Eh, that’s been a controversial question in the Deaf community because it certainly is viewed as an appropriation of the language and culture. It only contributes to the systematic oppression that the Deaf folks have been suffering from for too long. It is common for Hearing learners to shy away from a course that’s entirely taught without the use of voice, perhaps because it feels too unnatural, different, or even nerve-wracking. The reality is that learning from Deaf instructors is undoubtedly the BEST method to pick up sign language quickly. Not only that, it’s a demonstration of cultural respect. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of a “Voices Off” course, read more about it here. 

Long before platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, FaceBook, and YouTube became widely popular, there were already too many unqualified Hearing people claiming to be experts in American Sign Language. And now, it’s more stressful than ever for the Deaf community due to the rise of self-proclaimed unqualified teachers specifically on TikTok. 

This ongoing issue has darkly resulted in devaluing the beauty of signed languages  and overall disrespecting the community. Often, when consumers on TikTok see any videos in ASL, whether it’s a statement, story, or music, the “signers” are immediately put on a pedestal for knowing just a whiff of ASL. Many of these signers are actually signing gibberish, and the hurt runs quite deeply, more than the Hearing community realizes or will ever understand. The problem here is that signed languages are  being overly-fetishized, yet it’s not used for actual communication. It is not meant to be gawked at or used for entertainment. This type of mindset hurts the actual signing community and it cannot perpetuate. 

ASL is something to cherish empathically. 

ASL is something to value immensely. 

ASL is something to appreciate wholeheartedly. 

There are many brilliant and exceptionally talented Deaf folks teaching the language. Learning from Deaf  will enhance the students’ opportunity to truly grasp the correct information and the rich history of the ASL community and then develop a meaningful connection for the culture that’s been around for centuries. 

Are you interested in learning conversational ASL from a native Deaf signer? Sign up for a course at Visually Speaking! When you choose to learn from a Deaf teacher, it means you respect the culture.