Preservation of the Sign Language (1913)
In the National Film Registry
•
14m
Deaf activist signs for ASL preservation, fighting "oralism" in education.
Unlike traditional films that rely on spoken dialogue or title cards, Preservation of the Sign Language, a silent film from 1913 by the National Association of the Deaf (NAD), uses American Sign Language (ASL) as its sole mode of communication.
George Veditz, a prominent figure in the Deaf community, delivers a passionate speech entirely in ASL, advocating for the preservation of sign language as a vital form of communication.
This focus on ASL as a language itself makes the film experimental. It challenges the dominance of spoken language in film and highlights the richness and expressiveness of sign language. Veditz's large gestures and facial expressions add depth to his message, creating a powerful visual experience even without spoken words.
Preservation of the Sign Language is also a historical document. It provides a window into the educational debates of the early 20th century, where spoken language was often prioritized over sign language in deaf education. The film serves as a vital record of ASL at a specific point in time, contributing to the preservation of the language itself.
The film's legacy extends beyond its historical significance. Preservation of the Sign Language stands as a testament to the power of visual storytelling and the potential of film to represent diverse forms of communication.
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