Yolŋu Sign Language facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Yolŋu Sign Language |
|
|---|---|
| Murngin Sign Language | |
| Region | Gove Peninsula, Northern Territory, Australia |
| Ethnicity | Yolngu people |
| Native speakers | 5,000 natively bilingual (2012)e18 |
| Language family |
Pama–Nyungan
|
Yolŋu Sign Language (also called Murngin Sign Language) is a special sign language used by the Yolngu people. They are an Aboriginal community living in the Arnhem Land area of Australia.
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What is Yolŋu Sign Language?
Like other Australian Aboriginal sign languages, Yolŋu Sign Language (YSL) was first created by hearing people. They used it when they were not allowed to speak out loud. This might happen during times of sadness, like mourning, or when certain family members were together. This rule about not speaking is sometimes called a speech taboo.
More Than Just a Signed Version
It's important to know that YSL is not just a signed version of a spoken Yolŋu language. It has its own rules and ways of communicating. YSL is also a main way for deaf people in Yolŋu communities to talk to each other.
Why Do People Use YSL?
YSL is used in different situations. It works as both an "alternate" language and a "primary" language.
When Speaking is Not Allowed
Hearing people use YSL as an alternate language when they need to be silent. This can be during:
- Mourning: When someone has passed away, people might use YSL instead of speaking.
- Family Rules: There are special rules about how certain family members interact. Sometimes, this means they should not speak to each other directly. YSL helps them communicate respectfully.
- Ceremonies: Some important cultural ceremonies require silence. YSL allows people to take part without speaking.
Other Times YSL is Useful
YSL is also helpful for hearing people in other situations:
- Hunting: When hunting animals, silence is very important. Hunters can use YSL to talk to each other without making noise.
- Long Distances: If people are far apart, they can use signs to communicate when their voices might not carry.
YSL for Deaf Community Members
For deaf members of the Yolŋu communities, YSL is their main way of communicating. They learn it from birth, just like hearing children learn spoken languages. This means YSL is a vital part of their daily lives and helps them connect with everyone in their community.
Is YSL Still Used Today?
YSL was learned by many hearing people from a young age. However, today, Yolŋu Sign Language is considered an endangered language. This means fewer people are learning and using it, and there's a risk it could disappear if not protected.
See also
