Ireland, a deaf mother and grandmother, this meant inclusion of the Oneida language, which is on the verge of extinction. Oneida is very descriptive. It’s also a very old language that, with not many active speakers, has not evolved with the times. This is why there are less than 200 fluent Oneida speakers today. “When we have interpreters come into our community that are signing in American Sign Language (ASL), they come to a point in our discussions when one of our speakers will only speak in Oneida, and then the interpreter’s hands would just drop,” Max Ireland said. Marsha and Max worked with Elder Olive Elm, a fluent speaker, writer and reader of the Oneida language, over two years to develop a system of their own to translate Oneida words and actions into sign language. Max and Marsha would write out a phrase in English, and then Elm would translate that into written Oneida language. From that point Marsha would look at the translation and see which elements from ASL or Plains Sign Language – a form of Indigenous sign language which was used tradition- ally between trading communities that didn’t speak the same languages – could be incorporated appropriately. “We will continue to develop the signs by having Community Oneida Sign Classes,” Marsha said. “This is our effort to create a circle of inclusion that allows language to flourish and be used by all our community members, both deaf and hearing.” OSL currently has about 250 signs, counting to 100 and a 13-letter alphabet. Oneida is very descriptive. It’s also a very old language that, with not many active speakers, has not evolved with the times. This is why there are less than 200 fluent Oneida speakers today. A shared vision of growth and prosperity A vision that is deeply rooted in Indigenous culture, benefiting businesses and communities for generations to come. uniongas.com Arthur E. White J.R. White Business Manager President Diversity ● Strength ● Justice Sheet Metal Roofing Siding/Decking Production “Solidarity & Craftsmanship Since 1896” Sheet Metal Workers’ & Roofers’ Local 30 190 Milner Avenue Toronto, Ontario M1S 5B6 (416) 299-7260 www.smwia-L30.com Marsha and Max Ireland, developers of Oneida Sign Language SUMMER/WINTER 2018/19 – Chiefs of Ontario Advocate magazine   l   43