Oly Hugs and William Big Day present "Conversations in Plains Indian Sign Language." Join them as they share the history and legacy of this incredible language that inspired much of today's American Sign Language! This High Noon lecture takes place on September 18, 2025. | Western Heritage Center

The Plains Indian Sign Language - Maryland Deaf Culture Digital Library

The History of Sign Language

Long before American Sign Language (ASL) was developed, the Native tribes of the Great Plains created their own remarkable system of communication—Plains Indian Sign Language (PISL). This language was born out of necessity. Dozens of tribes, such as the Sioux, Cheyenne, Arapaho, Comanche, Kiowa, and Crow, spoke completely different languages. Yet they needed a way to trade, form alliances, share stories, and keep peace. From this need, a universal sign language emerged. ✨ What makes PISL unique?

1.4K views · 91 reactions | ISLRTC is launching a Dictionary of Indian Sign Language on 23rd March, 2018 at India International Center. It is the most comprehensive and largest dictionary in #IndianSignLanguage. #FirstIndianSignLanguageDictionaryGoI | Accessible India Campaign | Facebook