He says that in nineteen eighty-six fewer than fifty children in Hawaii could speak their native language fluently.

VOA: special.2009.12.02

English became the official language of Hawaii.

VOA: special.2009.12.02

The grammar structure in Hawaii Sign Language also differentiates it from ASL, Woodward noted.

CNN: Researchers document distinctive Hawaii Sign Language

While the now-prevailing ASL has rubbed off some, Woodward said it's been relatively minimal among those practicing Hawaii Sign Language.

CNN: Researchers document distinctive Hawaii Sign Language

For example, the Hawaii Sign Language word for father is to wag your finger -- whereas in ASL, it's an open hand with fingers spread and a thumb to the forehead.

CNN: Researchers document distinctive Hawaii Sign Language