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American Sign Language

To refer others to this page, please use:
http://www.nad.org/asl

Since its inception as an Association of individuals dedicated to the preservation of the language of deaf people, the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) has advocated for the acceptance of American Sign Language (ASL) in the United States. Developments in the field of linguistics and an emerging body of research in education have validated the historical views of the NAD on ASL and its value in the education of deaf and hard of hearing children.

The NAD believes that ASL is acquired through natural means by deaf and hard of hearing children, and that the inherent capability of these children to acquire ASL should be recognized and used to enhance their development. Accordingly, the NAD supports the right of deaf and hard of hearing children to have early and full exposure to ASL as a primary language along with English and they ought to be educated as bilingual and multilingual persons, with regard to reading and writing skills. Deaf and hard of hearing children need to acquire American Sign Language early and with full fluency in order to develop their fullest potential as educated and independent citizens.

Refer to the left nagivation bar to see model of an ASL bill or to read/view the NAD ASL position statement.

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NAD Affiliate
ASL/Interpreter Training Programs