American Sign Language (ASL) Visual Language Guide
Open-Palm Temple Salute
Visual & Spatial Language American Sign Language (ASL) expresses greetings through non-manual facial markers, handshape movements, and spatial placement rather than vocal sound.
The Philosophy of Care
Visual Presence (Unbroken shared eye gaze as connection)
In Deaf culture, eye contact and open facial expressions (non-manual markers) take the place of vocal tone. Breaking eye contact prematurely is equivalent to turning your back on someone speaking.
Visual Sign Production
Place the dominant flat-hand palm near the temple (fingers together), then smoothly move the hand outward and slightly upward in a gentle wave-salute while maintaining smiling eye contact.
Geographic Footprint & Etiquette
Used across United States & Global Deaf Community.
Never wave hands aggressively near someone's face to get attention; a gentle tap on the shoulder or tapping the table surface is the proper cultural greeting etiquette.