Why is spoken language real but not ASL?

It's not accurate to say that spoken language is real but ASL (American Sign Language) is not. Both spoken language and sign language are equally real and valid forms of communication.

Here's why this is a harmful misconception:

* Sign languages are complete languages. They have their own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, just like spoken languages. They are used to express complex ideas, emotions, and thoughts.

* Sign languages are not simply gestures or mime. They have their own linguistic structure and are not simply visual representations of spoken words.

* Sign languages are used by millions of people worldwide. They are essential for deaf and hard-of-hearing communities and play a vital role in their culture and identity.

The statement that ASL is not real is rooted in audism, which is a form of discrimination against deaf people based on the belief that hearing is superior to deafness and that sign language is inferior to spoken language.

It's important to recognize and challenge these misconceptions. Both spoken and sign languages are valuable and important forms of communication.