Thursday 30-09-2021 - 15:07

Emily Ball introduces the British Sign Language Society and how you can get involved.

Since its conception in 2016, Durham University’s British Sign Language society has provided an excellent opportunity for students of any background, whether deaf or hearing, to learn a new language and become immersed in a previously unfamiliar part of British culture.

As a student of Modern Foreign Languages myself, the prospect of learning a language with no written text, no conjugation and no pronunciation was both daunting and exciting. Within my first year of university, I quickly joined the society to challenge myself, as well as contribute, albeit in a relatively small way, towards the ongoing push for increased accessibility.

The society itself offers weekly lessons in the Students’ Union, with the ever-lovely Susan, as well as external examinations, meaning students can begin to become qualified in the language. There is simply something about sign language that pushes all to express themselves through their bodies, in a way British awkwardness often shies away from, as seen with the imperativeness of facial expressions and body language when trying to convey a message.

But more than this, the society offers an insight into a world most hearing people would be unaware of, with the attached social beliefs, behaviours, art and literary traditions of Deaf culture. For instance, one of our recent social events was a collaborative effort with the Affinity Signing Choir, in which participants learned how to sign Don’t Stop Believing by Journey via Zoom. The atmosphere created by both the learners and the choir members was incredible, and everyone couldn’t help but smile.

The society offers a rare opportunity to help aid accessibility through language learning and cultural immersion in a way like no other, whether you’re a first-year student or undertaking a PhD, no matter the subject area, British Sign Language society is a place for all.

Find out more at the online Freshers' Fair, and if you have any questions feel free to email bsl.society@durham.ac.uk. Free taster sessions will run on Friday 1 October (16:00-17:00), Thursday 7 October (16:00-17:00) and Friday 8 October (17:00-18:00), come along and try BSL out for yourself!

 

Get more out of your time at Durham by activating your Durham SU account. Every Durham student is automatically a member of Durham SU, and your account will allow you to join student groups and have full access to the benefits of the SU. Find out how to activate your account here.