The Cambridge University Dictionary defines the word culture as “the way of life of a particular people, especially shown in their ordinary behavior and habits, their attitudes towards each other, and their moral and religious beliefs.” The Deaf culture is just that! A group of individuals that, just like every other culture, has its protocol, rules of conduct, behavioral norms, language, political agendas, experiences, values, traditions and beliefs. It also includes social communication, art, entertainment and fun. Every culture has its beauty, and the Deaf culture isn’t an exception.
Like every other culture, the Deaf culture has its etiquette and manners. For example, it is necessary to sign in well-lit area so your signs and facial expressions can be seen clearly. It should also be an enthusiastic, lively and animated discussion, always displaying true emotions. In English or any other spoken language, you could normally call out a person’s name to speak to them, but not in the Deaf Culture. You would either stomp, point at them, gently tap their shoulder or wave your hand to get their attention. It is vital to keep eye contact with the person you are signing with. Looking into their
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There is confusion to a great extent in the hearing culture as to how to call or address a deaf person. For instance, the word Deaf with a capital D means culturally Deaf, while deaf with a lowercase d is a medical diagnosis of a degree of hearing loss. The term “Hard of Hearing” is a term for people with mild or moderate hearing loss. Hard of Hearing people can jump between deaf and hearing cultures. The term “Hearing Impaired” is highly offensive term in Deaf culture just as deaf mute or deaf and dumb. It is also very outdated. Culturally, deaf people are proud of their deafness; it is a crucial part of their identity, and they cherish it as much as any person would cherish their ethnicity, nationality, religion or