The University of San Diego (USD) offers the following languages: French, Italian, Spanish, German, Chinese, Arabic, Classical Greek, Japanese, and Latin. Why don't they offer American Sign Language (ASL)? ASL has been declared as a world language and is offered by San Diego State University, University of California San Diego, San Diego City College, San Diego Mesa College, San Diego College of Continuing Education, Grossmont College, and other schools in the San Diego area. 

Learning American Sign Language and about Deaf culture is an imperative part of disability justice and accessibility, which is why the Alliance of Disability Advocates club of USD is advocating for the language department to expand its languages to include ASL. Beginning in Spring 2020, USD began to allow ASL credits taken at other universities be transferred for language credits, but this is not accessible for most students. ASL should be offered to USD students without having to enroll in another university.

American Sign Language is not only useful for those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, but also children and nonverbal folks. Through ASL courses, students should be able to immerse themselves within Deaf culture and learn about the history of ASL as well as controversial issues facing the community.

If you are in support of our efforts to advocate for American Sign Language courses at the University of San Diego, please sign this petition!

All of the love,

Alliance of Disability Advocates