At Louisiana State University, currently, there is only one introductory course of  American Sign Language (ASL) offered through the World Languages department. However, as ASL is the primary language of deaf and hard-of-hearing North Americans, it should be expanded upon to offer enough ASL courses to fulfill general education foreign language requirements.

ASL, like other languages taught at LSU, is an intricate language that offers students the ability to learn an invaluable skill. This is an area of untapped potential, with possibilities to develop not only future students’ communication abilities but also a connection to their local community. Even nearby schools like Baton Rouge Community College and Tulane University offer multiple levels of courses to students.

The addition of a second ASL course is the first step to expanding the program to a full language requirement and developing a robust and comprehensive ASL department.

By signing this petition you are expressing your desire for the addition of a second-level ASL class at LSU, and the subsequent growth of the program within the World Languages Department.