How to Sign "Discrimination"

To sign 'discrimination,' start by holding your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing up. Form your dominant hand into a 'D' handshape, extending your index finger while your thumb touches your other fingers. Point your dominant index finger down toward your non-dominant palm and slide it across the surface.

Examples Using "Discrimination" in a Sentence

1

I experienced discrimination at work.

To sign this, point to yourself for 'I,' use the sign for 'experience,' then sign 'discrimination,' and finish with the sign for 'work.'

2

We must fight against discrimination.

Start by pointing to yourself and others for 'we,' sign 'must,' use the sign for 'fight' or 'against,' and end with 'discrimination.'

3

Discrimination is illegal.

Begin with the sign for 'discrimination,' followed by the sign for 'illegal' (striking your 'L' hand against your flat non-dominant palm).

How to Sign "Discrimination"
To sign 'discrimination,' start by holding your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing up. Form your dominant hand into a 'D' handshape, extending your index finger while your thumb touches your other fingers. Point your dominant index finger down toward your non-dominant palm and slide it across the surface.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This is an initialized sign, meaning it incorporates the first letter of the English word 'discrimination' (the 'D' handshape). The movement of striking or sliding across the palm is visually related to the sign for 'cancel,' symbolizing the act of crossing out, rejecting, or excluding someone.
Signing Tips
Focus on the crispness of your 'D' handshape. The contrast between the active dominant hand and the still, flat non-dominant hand helps make the sign clear. Ensure your facial expression matches the serious tone of the word.
Common Mistakes
Beginners often forget to use the initialized 'D' handshape, accidentally substituting an 'X' handshape or a generic pointer finger. This can confuse the sign with 'cancel.' Additionally, avoid moving both hands; your non-dominant hand should remain perfectly still as a stable base.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Discrimination" in a Sentence
1

I experienced discrimination at work.

To sign this, point to yourself for 'I,' use the sign for 'experience,' then sign 'discrimination,' and finish with the sign for 'work.'

2

We must fight against discrimination.

Start by pointing to yourself and others for 'we,' sign 'must,' use the sign for 'fight' or 'against,' and end with 'discrimination.'

3

Discrimination is illegal.

Begin with the sign for 'discrimination,' followed by the sign for 'illegal' (striking your 'L' hand against your flat non-dominant palm).

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same sign as 'cancel'?

They are very similar in movement, but 'discrimination' is an initialized sign. It specifically uses the 'D' handshape on the dominant hand, whereas 'cancel' typically uses an 'X' or an index finger.

Does the direction of the slide matter?

Generally, you slide the dominant 'D' hand across the palm towards yourself or in a crossing motion. The key is the clear contact and movement across the flat base hand.

Can I use this sign for 'prejudice'?

While related, 'prejudice' often has its own sign, frequently signed near the head or eyes to indicate a preconceived view. This sign is best used specifically for 'discrimination' or the act of excluding.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!