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January 7, 2006
Lawmaker pushes to recognize sign language as foreign language
Sign language has seen increased visibility in recent years in movies, on TV and at public events, including political speeches and church services. Now, one state senator wants sign language to be officially recognized as a foreign language in Nebraska's schools.
Sen. Roger Wehrbein of Plattsmouth introduced a bill (LB946) on Friday that would recognize American Sign Language, or ASL, as a distinct and separate language and authorize schools to offer it for foreign-language credit. ASL is its own language, with its own grammar rules and syntax. The silent language relies on gestures, facial expressions and body language.
ASL has become one of the most popular foreign languages taught to the hearing at high schools and universities around the country.
By the Associated Press
http://www.ketv.com/politics/5890866/detail.html
Posted by 4HL on January 7, 2006 7:48 PM
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