As Deaf Awareness Month comes to a close, it's important to reflect on the progress made in raising awareness and understanding of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. While this dedicated month may be ending, the mission to promote inclusivity, celebrate diversity, and foster understanding should continue throughout the year.

In a world that often struggles with differences, this month serves as a reminder of the beauty that lies within diversity and the power of unity.

The Heart of Deaf Awareness Month

Deaf Awareness Month is not just a calendar event; it's a celebration of the incredible diversity within the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. It's about embracing the uniqueness of Deaf culture, recognizing the challenges faced, and shifting toward change. 

The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community: A Significant Percentage

Did you know that approximately 13% of the United States' population is Deaf or Hearing Impaired? This sizable portion of our society brings with it a wealth of experiences, talents, and perspectives. Deaf Awareness Month provides us with an opportunity to tap into this treasure trove and foster an environment of understanding and collaboration.

From a Day to a Week: The Evolution of Awareness

The roots of Deaf Awareness Month trace back to the World Federation of the Deaf's celebration of the first International Day of the Deaf in 1958. Over time, this single day of awareness has blossomed into the International Week of the Deaf, observed every year during the last week of September. 

The Rich Tapestry of Deaf Culture

Deaf culture is a world unto itself. It encompasses a unique language, American Sign Language (ASL), which is utilized by over 70 million people globally for communication. But Deaf culture isn't solely about language; it's a rich tapestry woven with social beliefs, history, values, and traditions.

The Diversity of Sign Language

Sign language isn't a monolithic entity; it's as diverse as spoken languages. Across the globe, there exist between 138 and 300 different sign languages. Each has its own grammar and vocabulary, reflecting the cultural richness of the Deaf communities that use them.

It’s important to highlight BASL or, Black American Sign Language which is the unique dialect of American Sign Language (ASL) that developed within historically segregated African American Deaf communities. Here’s 5 things you may not know about BASL.

Embrace the Culture and Keep Learning 

Continue to educate yourself and others about Deaf culture, sign language, and the challenges faced by the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community such as language deprivation, accessibility and inclusivity. Knowledge is a powerful tool for fostering understanding. And, don’t be afraid to ask questions. 

Support Deaf Initiatives and Organizations 

Don’t know how to get involved? Seek out and support organizations that work to improve the lives of Deaf individuals as well as support Deaf- owned businesses. These organizations often provide valuable resources, advocacy, and services. We need your financial support, too!

Practice What You Preach 

Inclusion goes beyond awareness; it involves action. Ensure that your workplace, school, or community is accessible and accommodating to Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. Encourage and facilitate communication accessibility, whether through sign language interpreters or captioning services. 

Use inclusive language. Be mindful of your language choices. Always refer to people in the way they prefer and respect their communication preferences, whether it's ASL, lip-reading, or other methods.

In short, Deaf awareness is an everyday practice. Embrace that we are all learning and growing together. And, give grace to others. We are all in this together.



Join us on social media for more insights on how we are keeping Deaf Awareness Month going all year long.

Until next time,

St. Francis de Sales School for the Deaf (SFDS)