Sign language is a natural language that is complete and equivalent to spoken language, having its own complex grammar, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. In contrast to the old assumption that it is a “simple sign language” or simply gestures, modern linguists since William Stokoe in 1960 have proven that sign language has a full linguistic structure, including visual phonology (chereme), morphology, and rich discourse. Worldwide, there are more than 300 different sign languages, each developing naturally in the Deaf community. International Sign Language (International Sign (IS) emerged in response to the need for cross-border communication among the global Deaf community. Official recognition of sign language as an equal language has grown stronger following the 2006 UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which emphasized the linguistic rights of the Deaf community. However, the journey towards equality is still long.
The history of International Sign Language dates back to international meetings of the Deaf community since the beginning of the 20th century. The World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) which was founded in 1951 became the main catalyst. At the WFD Congress, delegates from different countries used a naturally developed mixed sign system, which was later called the International Sign. IS is not an artificial language like Esperanto, but rather a pidgin or contact language that takes iconic elements from various national sign languages. It relies heavily on iconism (similarity of the form of the sign to meaning) and visual flexibility. For example, cues for “computer” or “internet” are easy to understand intuitively. This development is similar to the creole that emerged from language contact, where the Deaf community creatively created an effective way of communicating without relying on one particular national language.
In contrast to national sign languages such as American Sign Language (ASL), British Sign Language (BSL), or Indonesian Sign Language (BISINDO), International Sign is more flexible and lacks strict and rigid grammar. ASL and BISINDO have complex and unique grammatical structures, while IS relies more on context, facial expressions, and expressive body movements. This makes IS particularly effective for international conferences, workshops, and sporting events such as the Deaflympics. However, due to its pidgin-like nature, IS has a more limited vocabulary and grammar than the national sign language. The international Deaf community continues to develop it organically, with contributions from various countries, including BISINDO speakers who are increasingly active in global forums. The existence of IS proves that the Deaf community is able to create dynamic cross-cultural communication tools.
The struggle to make sign language an equal language still faces many challenges. In many countries, including Indonesia, sign language has not been fully integrated into formal education, public services, and the media. Adequate simultaneous interpretation is still scarce, so access to information for people with hearing disabilities is often limited. At the international level, the use of IS in the United Nations and global forums is an important milestone, but the dominance of spoken language remains strong. Linguistic research shows that Deaf children who grow up with sign language from an early age have cognitive, social, and emotional development on par with hearing children. Therefore, the recognition of sign language as the first mother tongue for the Deaf community is a human rights issue. The success stories of many international Deaf activists show that when sign language is valued, Deaf cultural identity can flourish proudly and independently.
Overall, International Sign Language is an inspiring story of the resilience, creativity, and struggle of the Deaf community in affirming linguistic equality. He proved that language is not just about sound, but about meaning, identity, and connection between people. In the era of globalization, strengthening IS and national sign language is essential to realize true inclusion. The government, academia, and society need to continue to encourage bilingual education (sign language and spoken language), linguistic research, and better representation in the media. Sign language is not a “substitute” for spoken language, but rather a rich and equal language system that enriches human diversity. By appreciating it, we not only empower the Deaf community, but also expand our understanding of what language and human identity are.
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