Sign Language.

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An Essential Tool in Modern Life.


The history of sign language is fascinating and deeply rooted in the need for communication of deaf people over time. Although the modern form of sign language has evolved over the past few centuries, its roots extend much further back in history.

Since ancient times, deaf people likely used gestures and signs to communicate, as visual communication is a natural response to the loss of hearing ability. In cultures such as the Egyptian, Greek, and Roman, it was accepted for deaf people to use gestures to interact, although they were viewed with prejudice due to their lack of speech.

During the Middle Ages, the idea prevailed that deaf people could not be educated or receive the sacraments because they could not speak, which limited their rights and development. In the Renaissance, some communities began to change this perception. In Spain, Benedictine monks used sign systems as part of their vows of silence, which influenced the education of deaf people.

16th and 17th centuries: Pedro Ponce de León, a Spanish monk, is considered the pioneer in the education of deaf people. He developed methods to teach them to read, write, and communicate. Juan Pablo Bonet, also in Spain, published in 1620 the book Reducción de las letras y arte para enseñar a hablar a los mudos, which included a manual alphabet based on gestures. These systems focused on teaching deaf people to speak and lip-read, but also incorporated visual and gestural elements.

In France, in 1755, Charles-Michel de l'Épée founded the first free school for deaf people in Paris. He is known as the "Father of Sign Language." He developed a sign system based on the gestures already used by deaf people in Paris and combined it with grammatical rules. This system evolved into what we now know as French Sign Language (FSL), which influenced other sign languages ​​around the world.

In 1817, Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, inspired by l'Épée's work, founded the first school for the deaf in the United States, together with Laurent Clerc, a French deaf teacher. American Sign Language (ASL) developed from the combination of FSL and the signs used by local deaf communities in the United States.

At the Congress of Milan, educators decided that oral instruction, focusing on lip reading and speaking, was superior to sign language. This led to the marginalization of sign language in schools in many parts of the world, negatively impacting the education and cultural identity of deaf people.

In the mid-20th century, linguistic research demonstrated that sign languages ​​are complete linguistic systems with their own grammar, vocabulary, and structures. In 1960, William Stokoe published a study recognizing ASL as a legitimate language, marking a milestone in its acceptance. In many countries, deaf communities fought for official recognition of their sign languages ​​as their own languages.

Today, many sign languages ​​are officially recognized as languages ​​in different countries. For example, Mexican Sign Language (LSM) is recognized as a national language in Mexico. Technologies such as video calls, subtitles, and interpretation services have improved accessibility for deaf people. All over the world, deaf communities continue to advocate for equal rights, inclusive education, and cultural recognition.

Sign language is not just a communication tool, but an expression of cultural identity. Each sign language reflects the history, values, and traditions of the community that uses it, and its development has been key to the empowerment and inclusion of deaf people in society.

The importance of everyone in Puerto Vallarta learning sign language lies in promoting a more inclusive, accessible and equitable society for deaf people, encouraging respect for their rights and guaranteeing their full participation in the community.

Learning sign language helps break down communication barriers between deaf and hearing people. This facilitates their integration into social, cultural, educational and work activities, contributing to a more united and respectful community in Puerto Vallarta.

In a tourist destination like Puerto Vallarta, where diversity is key, ensuring that deaf people can access services, information and entertainment on equal terms is essential. Learning sign language ensures that no one is excluded from everyday activities or important events.

Puerto Vallarta is a destination that receives visitors from all over the world, including deaf tourists. Having staff trained in sign language in hotels, restaurants, cultural centers and tourist services enriches the experience of these visitors and projects an image of inclusive hospitality.

The ability to communicate in sign language in hospitals, educational centers, government offices, and public spaces is vital for deaf people to access these services without intermediaries, strengthening their autonomy and dignity.

Learning sign language fosters empathy and understanding towards deaf people, helping to break down stigmas and prejudices. This is particularly valuable in a city as multicultural as Puerto Vallarta, where harmonious coexistence among its inhabitants is sought.

In Puerto Vallarta schools, teaching sign language to students and teachers facilitates the inclusion of deaf children in the regular education system. This not only benefits deaf students, but also raises awareness among their peers and fosters a culture of inclusion from an early age.

A community that knows sign language creates an environment in which deaf people can actively participate in community processes, such as neighborhood meetings, cultural activities, and social development programs, strengthening social cohesion.

In emergency situations, such as natural disasters or evacuations, effective communication with deaf people can save lives. Having civil protection personnel, firefighters, and security forces who are proficient in sign language is key in a place prone to natural phenomena like Puerto Vallarta.

Inclusive tourism is a growing trend, and cities that prioritize accessibility attract more visitors. Having tour guides, interpreters, and signage in Puerto Vallarta increases its appeal as an inclusive and conscious destination.

Learning sign language enriches the cultural life of Puerto Vallarta. Incorporating elements of the deaf community, such as sign theater or inclusive workshops, not only benefits deaf people, but also broadens the cultural landscape for all residents and tourists.

Access to sign language is recognized as a fundamental human right by the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Promoting its learning in Puerto Vallarta is a step towards fulfilling these rights. Puerto Vallarta can become an example of inclusion in Mexico, standing out as a city that not only cares about its visitors, but also cares for all its inhabitants, regardless of their abilities.

Teaching and learning sign language in Puerto Vallarta not only improves the quality of life of deaf people, but transforms the community into a model of inclusion, empathy and respect for diversity. Investing in accessibility through sign language is betting on a more just, supportive city that is prepared to face the challenges of a modern and multicultural society.

Learn to communicate beyond words. At the Los Mangos Library, they invite you to be part of their Mexican Sign Language (LSM) Workshop taught by Anabel Ortiz, a space where inclusion, learning, and empathy take center stage. This workshop is designed for people over 15 years old. More information at 3221090009 Phone: 3222249966 at the Los Mangos Library, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco.