The termdeaf cultureis commonly used in the deaf community.
Deaf culture is used to describe unique characteristics found among the population of deaf and hard of hearing people.
It’s reflected in art, literature, social environments, and much more.
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What Is Deaf Culture?
Based on this definition, the deaf community can be said to have its own unique culture.
In addition, thedeaf communityengages in social and political activities exclusive to them.
Deaf Cultural Arts
Anyone could easily decorate their entire home with deaf-themed artwork.
Many deaf artists also run their own websites.
Look around for art displays at local deaf community organizations and schools.
There are professional deaf theater companies that entertain deaf and hearing audiences alike.
Deaf Westis just one of the notable deaf theater companies.
They were so successful in the production of “Big River,” that it made it onto Broadway.
This show included both deaf and hearing actors.
You will also find a number of amateur and children’s theater troupes specifically for deaf people.
These are a fantastic way to get involved in your local deaf community.
Several of these have become required reading indeaf studies classes.
Deaf Cinema
Deaf people have produced movies and hold their own film festivals.
These often focus on a celebration of deaf culture and are a great time for the community to gather.
In fact, in 1902, ASL was the first recorded language in cinema, predating spoken films.
Some poems are online and others have been collected in books.
ASL poetry is a special form of poetry that uses sign language.
Research shows deaf students benefit from studying ASL poetry and learning to express themselves creatively through poetry.
Deaf people have also created their own form of deaf humor that focuses on the deaf experience.
Sign Language
Sign languageis the aspect of deaf culture most closely identified with deafness.
Each country has its own sign language.
Even within countries, you will find sign language dialects.
Yet, people who are deaf have created all of the above.
This has led to the argument: Is deafness pathological or cultural?
If deafness is cultural, is it a disability?
This is an interesting topic and one that is discussed regularly in the deaf community.
The Outreach Center for Deafness and Blindness.Understanding the deaf culture and the deaf world.
In: Gertz G, Boudreault P, eds.The SAGE Deaf Studies Encyclopedia.
2010;155(2):1107. doi:10.1353/aad.2010.0008
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.American Sign Language.
