Brazilian Sign Language

Brazilian Sign Language, also known as "Libras" (from "Língua Brasileira de Sinais"), previously known as LSB or LGB, is the language of the Deaf communities of Brazil.

Recognition and status
Libras is well-established; several dictionaries, instructional videos and a number of articles on the linguistic features of the language have been published.

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 (see the law here (in Portuguese)). The law mandates the use of Libras in education and government services.

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

Alphabet
Libras fingerspelling uses a one-handed manual alphabet similar to that used by the French Sign Language family. See this link.

Deaf and sign language organizations
The peak deaf organization is FENEIS, the Federação Nacional de Educação e Integração dos Surdos. There are a number of regional organizations in Curitiba, Caxias do Sul and Rio Grande do Sul.