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?

8.2K views · 107 reactions | Lakxota Language with Hand Talk (Plains Indian Sign Language). This is Lekshi Ray and Kimi conversing after 14 days of class without the use of any writing (yet). This method is called “Where Are Your Keys?” Students are also learning songs and the creation story as of right now. | McLaughlin Mustangs | Facebook

Discover the Signs and Stories of Wind River. Experience Plains Indian Sign Language through our TravelStorysGPS audio tour, created in partnership with Wyoming Humanities. Learn how ‘Hand Talk’ shaped communication and connection across generations on the Wind River Reservation. 📲 Take the tour: TravelStorysGPS Audio Tour 🎥 Watch the behind-the-scenes video on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGP7BMowBVmzIbn54UxGyyw3tiDz6elkI | Wyoming Humanities

Sign language used by Native American peoples evolved as a way of communicating across language barriers, which proved valuable for trade, story-telling, and ceremonies. This was an interesting time in history when sign language was used alongside spoken languages. This footage is from the Indian Sign Language Council of 1930 (Plains Indian Sign Language - PISL). Advice: Please note this video contains footage of deceased Indigenous people. | Ai-Media