Audism is a term many people have never heard of, yet it affects millions of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals every day. Simply put, audism is discrimination or prejudice against people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. It assumes that being able to hear—and speak—is superior to being Deaf. These assumptions can manifest in subtle, unintentional ways or in direct and harmful actions.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what audism looks like, why it’s harmful, and how we can work together to address it.
The term “audism” was first coined in 1975 by Deaf scholar Tom Humphries. It refers to the belief that those who hear are superior to those who do not. Audism can take many forms, including:
Audism doesn’t always look like overt discrimination. Sometimes it’s hidden in everyday comments or assumptions:
These actions, even when unintentional, reinforce the idea that hearing is the “normal” or “preferred” way to be.
Audism contributes to:
It sends a message to Deaf individuals—especially Deaf children—that they are broken or lesser. This can have long-lasting psychological and societal effects.
Learn about Deaf culture, American Sign Language (ASL), and the lived experiences of Deaf people. Awareness is the first step toward change.
ASL is not a form of English on the hands—it has its own grammar, structure, and cultural importance. Supporting ASL means supporting access to identity and community.
Follow Deaf activists, scholars, and creators. Center their perspectives in conversations about policy, education, and accessibility.
Promote captioning, interpreting services, and inclusive communication in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. Accessibility is not optional—it’s a right.
When you hear someone make an audist remark, gently correct them. Call out systems or practices that exclude Deaf people or devalue their experiences.
These organizations advocate for the rights, education, and empowerment of the Deaf community. Your support helps amplify Deaf leadership.
Audism, like all forms of discrimination, thrives on ignorance and silence. But with awareness, education, and empathy, we can build a world that embraces Deaf people for who they are—without judgment, limits, or assumptions. Deafness is not a deficit. It’s a difference—and one that deserves dignity, respect, and full inclusion.