Bill Stokoe's Legacy

Sharon Berman discusses her early experiences with transformative sign language and her work with linguist Bill Stokey at Gallaudet University. Initially, Stokey's ideas were met with skepticism, but his independent thinking and dedication to treating sign language as a real language eventually gained recognition. Berman recounts organizing a reception to showcase their work, which initially had little attendance but later saw significant recognition, highlighting Stokey's lasting impact on the field.

What was the reaction of people to Bill Stokey's Dictionary of American Sign Language?

What significant event occurred shortly before Bill Stokey passed away?