French Sign Language Academy


The French Sign Language Academy, abbreviated ALSF, is a French association to promote French Sign Language. It was founded in 1979 by Guy Bouchauveau and Christian Bourgeois, the first president. It offers training in FSL and participates in research of the language in partnership with the. The ALSF is an accredited training center for the Diplôme de Compétences en Langues.

The Hands of Gold Award

In 1999, the association created The 'Hands of Gold Award', awarded to individuals or associations who have done outstanding work to protect or promote the Deaf community.