Brazilian Sign Language

Brazilian Sign Language (BSL), also known as "Libras" (Portuguese pronunciation: [ˈlibɾɐs], from "Língua Brasileira de Sinais" [ˈlĩɡwɐ bɾaziˈlejɾɐ dʒi siˈnajs]) and variously abbreviated as LSB, LGB or LSCB (Brazilian Cities Sign Language), is the sign language used by deaf communities of urban Brazil.

Recognition and status

Brazilian Sign Language is well-established; several dictionaries, instructional videos and a number of articles on the linguistic features of the language have been published. It has dialects across Brazil reflecting regional and sociocultural differences.

A strong sign language law was passed by the National Congress of Brazil on April 24, 2002, and (in 2005) is in the process of being implemented. The law mandates the use of Brazilian Sign Language in education and government services.

Educational approaches has evolved from oralism to Total Communication and bilingualism.

Alphabet

BSL fingerspelling uses a one-handed manual alphabet similar to that used by the French Sign Language family.

Libra

Libra may refer to:

Science and technology

Entertainment

Other

3 Libras

"3 Libras" is a song by alternative rock band A Perfect Circle. The song was the second single from their debut album Mer de Noms. The song was well received both critically and commercially, with it peaking at number 12 on both the Billboard US Modern Rock and Mainstream Rock charts in 2001.

Background

As with all of the Mer de Noms album, "3 Libras'" music was written by guitarist Billy Howerdel, while the lyrics were written by vocalist Maynard James Keenan. The two originally envisioned the track to be the first single of their debut album prior to being talked into going with the hard rock track "Judith" by record label executives, who felt the track was a better lead off single due to it being less of a departure from Keenan's other band, Tool.

Two official remixed versions of the song have been made; the "Feel My Ice Dub Mix" by band member Danny Lohner, and the "All Main Courses Mix" by Robert "3D" Del Naja of Massive Attack. They were compiled in 2004 on the band's remix album Amotion.