Gaining the ability to effectively communicate and acknowledge people’s gender identities is essential in creating an inclusive and accepting environment. In American Sign Language (ASL), the manual alphabet, facial expressions, and body language are used to convey messages. To say “nonbinary” in ASL, there are various ways to express this concept formally or informally. Additionally, regional variations may exist, but we will focus on the most widely used signs in ASL.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Nonbinary in ASL
When using ASL formally, it’s crucial to be respectful by incorporating accurate signs and avoiding any slang or offensive gestures. Here are a few formal ways to say “nonbinary” in ASL:
1. Neutral Sign
The most commonly used sign for “nonbinary” in ASL is the neutral sign. To sign “nonbinary,” extend both hands forward with palms facing down. Holding both hands side by side, move them in a slight figure-eight motion simultaneously. This sign symbolizes the idea of being neither male nor female and is widely understood within the ASL community.
2. Gender-Neutral Sign
Another way to express “nonbinary” is by using the gender-neutral sign. This sign emphasizes the absence of gender identity. To sign “nonbinary” using the gender-neutral sign, hold both hands in front of your chest, palms facing inward. Then, move both hands forward simultaneously and slightly cross them over each other. This sign represents gender neutrality and is used by some ASL signers to convey the concept of being nonbinary.
Informal Ways to Say Nonbinary in ASL
Informal signing usually occurs among individuals who are more familiar with each other, such as friends, colleagues, or within certain communities. Informal signing may include regional variations and personal adaptations. Here are a couple of informal signs for “nonbinary” in ASL:
1. Fingerspelling “NB”
One informal approach to express “nonbinary” in ASL is to fingerspell the abbreviation “NB.” To fingerspell, use the ASL manual alphabet and sequentially form the letters N and B using your dominant hand. This faster and more casual method is often used in informal conversations.
2. Incorporating Facial Expressions
Informal signing also allows for looser interpretations and expressiveness. You can emphasize your nonbinary identity by incorporating facial expressions that reflect your personal feelings or experiences. These expressions can help convey your gender identity while engaging in ASL conversations.
Tips for Communicating Nonbinary Identity in ASL
Respecting and representing nonbinary identity requires sensitivity and understanding. Here are some additional tips for effectively communicating the concept of being nonbinary in ASL:
1. Learn from the Deaf Community
Immerse yourself in the Deaf community, attend ASL classes, or engage with educational resources to gain a deeper understanding of ASL and the cultural nuances related to nonbinary identities. Communicating effectively in ASL involves more than just learning signs; it requires experiencing the language within its cultural context.
2. Be Open to Feedback
Be open to feedback and correction from Deaf individuals who are knowledgeable about ASL. They can provide valuable insights into signing conventions and help you refine your communication skills while discussing nonbinary identities in ASL. Learning is an ongoing process, and accepting feedback gracefully is essential to improving your ASL fluency.
3. Avoid Generalizations
Remember that each person’s experience of nonbinary identity is unique. Avoid making assumptions or generalizations when discussing nonbinary individuals in ASL. Treat each person you communicate with as an individual and respect their specific gender identity and preferred pronouns.
Conclusion
Learning how to say “nonbinary” in ASL is an important step in promoting inclusivity and understanding. Whether you choose to use formal signs like the neutral sign or gender-neutral sign or opt for less formal approaches, ensure that you engage respectfully in conversations regarding nonbinary identities in ASL. Remember to continuously learn, embrace feedback, and be sensitive to the diverse experiences within the nonbinary community. By doing so, you can contribute to creating a more inclusive and accepting environment for all.
