The Silence Between Us

The phrase “the Deaf community” can refer to either a single group or to a smaller subdivision of this larger group. When it refers to the Deaf in general, the term acknowledges the cultural community that has evolved among Deaf people worldwide. It includes people with varying degrees of Deafness, their friends and family members, and their advocates and sign language interpreters. These people share common visual languages, such as sign languages and lip reading, and thus their community can be an important source of companionship and understanding in a world that does not always accommodate Deafness. They also share many experiences that are distinct from the experiences of those outside the community. Often, they face similar obstacles and can function as a support network for one another. They may work together to advocate for social changes that reduce barriers by changing legal policies or educating the general public. Sometimes, the term “Deaf community” also refers to a smaller subdivision of the larger community, acknowledging that smaller Deaf communities often form around shared locations, values, or heritage.

Both the larger Deaf community and smaller groups within this community have worked hard to improve accessibility, inclusion, and understanding. They want hearing people to understand that Deaf people are just as capable as hearing people, provided that their communication