Deaf culture

What is Deaf Culture?

Deaf and hard of hearing people do not identify as having a disability or see themselves as experiencing a limitation. Instead, they identify as a member of a cultural and linguistic group.

People who identify themselves as Deaf (note the capital “D”) belong to a proud and distinctive culture group known as the Deaf culture.  Through their collective efforts to meet their own needs, Deaf people have organised a network of social, religious, athletic, dramatic, scholarly and literary organisations serving local, national and international memberships.

Deaf Culture is made up of: 

Language refers to the native visual cultural language of Deaf people, with its own syntax (grammar or form), semantics (vocabulary or content) and pragmatics (social rules of use). It is highly valued by the Deaf community because it’s visually accessible.

Values in the Deaf community include the importance of clear communication for all both in terms of expression and comprehension. Deaf residential schools and Deaf clubs are important because of the natural social interaction they offer. Preserving national sign languages, heritage, Deaf literature and art are other examples of what we value. For example, in 1989 a group of American Deaf artists created the term De’VIA meaning ‘art with a Deaf view’. It is to entertain, share and educate in ways that express Deaf experience through their eyes.

Traditions include the stories kept alive through Deaf generations, Deaf experiences and expected participation in Deaf cultural events. Norms refer to rules of behaviour in the deaf community. All cultures have their own set of behaviours that are deemed acceptable. For Deaf people, it includes getting someone’s attention appropriately, using direct eye contact and correct use of shoulder tapping.

Identity is one of the key components of the whole person. Accepting that one is Deaf and is proud of his/her culture and heritage and a contributing member of that society is key to being a member of the cultural group.

KEY FACTORS IN DEAF CULTURE: 

► VISUAL

• Sign language                  • Body Language                • Facial Expressions 

► SOCIAL

• Powerful cultural bonding                     

► SPORTS

• Athletic organisations    • Deaflympics (World Games ofr the Deaf) 

► DEAF CLUBS/EVENTS

• For relaxation, socialising, information, news, dances, raffles, banquets, lectures, parties, gambling nights, anniversary celebrations and more.

Is sign language the same all over the world? 

No.  Each language is unique with distinct culture expressed by visible hand gestures. Just as spoken languages have evolved throughout the world, various signed languages have also emerged in different parts of the world.  The languages may differ from region to region and country to country.