Does DHHIG endorse sign language as the only method of communication?
No! The DHHIG supports a wide spectrum of communication preferences used by all Deaf and HH Federal employees in the workplace. Whether they use sign language, oral, or speech methods, or otherwise, they are encouraged to adapt with their communication needs. It does not also endorse whether American Sign Language (ASL), Signed Exact English (SEE), or Contact Language (ASL & SEE) is the appropriate method for signing. However, DHHIG encourages its members to reasonably accommodate the other user’s communication requirements together. For instance, if one is a sign language manualist and cannot use its voice to communicate with a person using speech, they are encouraged to use pens and note pads or an interpreter, etc.
