What Do Jamaicans Think About the State of their Indigenous Sign Language?
What Do Jamaicans Think About the State of their Indigenous Sign Language?
Overview of Jamaican Sign Language (JSL)
Jamaican Sign Language (JSL) is a unique mode of communication that has evolved within the Jamaican deaf community. However, the reality is that many Jamaicans are not informed about its existence or are under the impression that it is a variant of American Sign Language (ASL) or another form. This lack of awareness underlines the importance of recognizing and preserving JSL as an indigenous sign language.
Endangered State of Jamaican Sign Language
Currently, the native Jamaican sign language, also known as 'country sign language,' is considered endangered. This is primarily due to the dominance of ASL influences and the efforts by missionaries to promote ASL over indigenous forms of sign language. A Google search on Jamaican sign language often presents a version more influenced by ASL, overshadowing the native country sign language. This raises concerns about the preservation of the indigenous language.
Views of the Deaf Community and the Public
The perspectives of both the deaf community and the general population on Jamaican sign language are varied and often dictated by misinformation. Here are some common viewpoints:
Deaf Community Perspective
The Jamaican deaf community is deeply aware of the issues surrounding their language. Leaders and advocates within the community have vocalized concerns about the marginalization and overshadowing of country sign language. They emphasize the cultural and linguistic importance of preserving this indigenous form of communication. Unfortunately, many deaf individuals are not involved in the preservation efforts, which further complicates the situation.
General Public Perspective
Surveys and informal discussions indicate that the average Jamaican is not well-informed about Jamaica's indigenous sign language. When questioned, many people respond with a lack of awareness or misinformation. Some responses reflect past beliefs, such as the idea that Jamaica does not have an indigenous sign language or that the Taino people used a form of Arawakan. These misconceptions contribute to the lack of appreciation and support for the language.
However, a few Jamaicans, especially those in academia and the linguistics field, are actively researching and advocating for the preservation of JSL. They acknowledge its significance in maintaining the cultural heritage of the deaf community and its importance in fostering a sense of identity among deaf Jamaicans.
Importance of Indigenous Sign Language
Indigenous sign languages, like JSL, are vital for cultural and linguistic diversity. They reflect the historical and social contexts of the communities that use them. In the case of Jamaica, preserving JSL ensures that the unique linguistic identity of the deaf community is maintained, which can also benefit the wider society in terms of understanding and respect for cultural diversity.
Conclusion
The state of Jamaican indigenous sign language (country sign language) is a topic of great importance and concern. The lack of awareness and the influence of other sign languages are serious issues that need to be addressed. Advocacy, research, and education are essential for the preservation and promotion of JSL. It is imperative for both the deaf community and the wider Jamaican population to recognize and support the importance of indigenous sign languages.