Flemish sign language (( Dutch: Vlaamse Gebarentaal or VGT ) is the most common sign language in Flanders . It is officially recognized by the Flemish community . The approximate number of speakers is 6,000.
Flemish sign language is not an adaptation of the Flemish ( Dutch ) language. Flemish sign language is a complete independent language with its own vocabulary and grammar.
Dialects
There are five dialects of the Flemish sign language, the distribution area of which roughly coincides with the borders of the Flemish provinces.
Recognition
The decree on the official recognition of the Flemish sign language was unanimously adopted by the on April 26, 2006. The catalyst for this decision was a petition that collected 71330 signatures.
Links
- Flemish Sign Language Center
- Basic Flemish Sign Language Information (link not available)
- Decree text