What is clayton valli?

Clayton Valli (1951-2003) was a renowned Deaf linguist, poet, and professor of American Sign Language (ASL). He was one of the key figures in the field of Deaf Studies and made significant contributions to the understanding and appreciation of ASL as a legitimate language with its own complex grammar and structure.

Valli was born Deaf and grew up in the Deaf community, which deeply influenced his work and perspectives on ASL. He earned his bachelor's degree from Gallaudet University and went on to get his master's and Ph.D. in linguistics from the University of New Mexico. He taught ASL and Deaf culture at Gallaudet University, as well as other universities and institutions.

Valli's research focused on the linguistic aspects of ASL, particularly in the areas of phonology, morphology, and syntax. He also popularized the use of ASL poetry as a medium for artistic expression and cultural preservation.

Some of Valli's most famous works include "Linguistics of American Sign Language," a textbook that has become a staple in ASL education, and his poetry collection "I'll See You Again."

Clayton Valli passed away in 2003, but his legacy lives on through his contributions to the fields of Deaf Studies and ASL linguistics.