The Sound of Silence in Nohya: A Preliminary Account of Sign Language Use by the Deaf in a Maya Community in Yucatan, Mexico.

Abstract This paper describes the system of manual communication used by the deaf in a small Maya Indian village in Yucatan, Mexico. The SL is analyzed at two levels recommended by Voegelin. First, the lexicon is described in order to show (a) parallels with other SLs; (b) similarities to the folk gestural system of Mexico; and (c) distinguishing aspects. Second, syntax and grammar are partially described by the presentation of a number of examples designed to test the principles given by Stokoe and Kuschel in their field guide. Finally, conclusions are suggested and recommendations for further work presented.

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