Revitalizing Deaf Culture Through Sign Language: Preserving Linguistic Diversity

Sign languages are vital to Deaf culture and identity. They are complex visual languages that play a vital role in Deaf culture. In Cameroon, many Deaf languages face threats to their survival. Cameroon Sign Language (CSL) is a valuable and unique part of Deaf culture and identity. Yet, CSL faces significant barriers including; inadequate training of sign language teachers, limited documentation, and poor access to sign language education. These challenges threaten the long-term survival and revitalization of the language. This study is grounded in the framework of Cultural capital Theory developed by Pierre Bourdieu (2004). This theory explores how cultural knowledge, skills, and preferences can be leveraged as resources for social mobility and empowerment. 30 participants made up the population of study. A Mixed-method research design was employed. 5 sign language classes and 5 community events were observed. 20 Questionnaires were distributed to students. Interviews were conducted with 5 sign language teachers, and 5 policy makers. Findings indicate that: 1. Four major challenges were identified that hindered the preservation and revitalization of CSL: Limited access to sign language education and technology, sociolinguistic challenges, lack of documentation and cultural factors. 2. Four strategies are highlighted to effectively preserve and revitalize CSL. The study recommends the development of a training program to certify CSL teachers and ensure the quality of education as well as record and document stories, legends and cultural practices to create a linguistic and cultural archive that will preserve and revitalize the language.