understanding deaf culture in search of deafhood

Just as all these cultural groups have various subsets and groups, so do Deaf cultures. For example, some members of Deaf cultures may also identify as black, LGBTQ, Muslim, or a woman. For example, a person with no hearing loss who works as an ASL translator and identifies with Deaf culture is a member of a Deaf culture.ĭeaf culture is highly varied, as its members are also members of other cultural groups. Deaf cultures may include people who are deaf or hard of hearing and even hearing people who identify with Deaf culture. Colorado’s Department of Human Services defines Deaf as “a group of people, with varying hearing acuity, whose primary mode of communication is a visual language (predominantly American Sign Language (ASL) in the United States) and have a shared heritage and culture,” (Colorado Secretary of State, 15).

Deaf cultures have their own histories, traditions, languages, forms of art, and values. In fact, the physical lack of hearing is only one aspect of Deaf culture. It’s A Culture, Not A Disabilityĭeaf is a culture, not a disability or something that needs to be overcome. Deaf Gain: deafness is a strength as members of Deaf cultures have much to contribute to society.Īvoid using terms such as “deaf-mute” and “deaf and dumb,” as these terms are offensive.This term is preferred instead of the term hearing impaired, which implies that something is wrong with the individual. “Hard of hearing”: mild or moderate hearing loss, not deafness.Here are a few that you need to know:ĭeaf (lower case d): an audiological condition. It’s important to know the correct meanings of terms commonly used by members of Deaf cultures. Here are some concepts to consider on your journey to understanding Deaf culture: The Meaning of Terms Yet, Deaf culture is a concept that many hearing people have not encountered or do not understand. In addition, a larger number of people report developing hearing loss that impacts their daily lives. 1 out of every 1,000 people in the United States becomes deaf before age 18.

Understanding deaf culture in search of deafhood