ASLdeafined Blog » American Deaf Culture

Deaf Representation in Media

The Importance of Deaf Representation in Media In a world where media shapes perceptions, representation matters—especially for marginalized communities like the Deaf and hard of hearing. Authentic and visible representation in television, film, news, and digital content is more than just inclusion—it’s a powerful affirmation of identity, culture, and belonging. Why Representation Matters When Deaf […]

Why First Responders Should Know American Sign Language and Understand Deaf Culture

In moments of crisis, communication can be a matter of life and death. For the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community, interactions with first responders — such as police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics — can be especially stressful when language barriers exist. That’s why it is crucial for first responders to have at least a basic […]

Everyday Technology That Supports the Deaf Community

In a world driven by sound — doorbells, alarms, phones, and announcements — people who are Deaf or hard of hearing navigate daily life with the help of innovative technology. These tools are more than just convenient; they are empowering. From safety to communication, technology bridges gaps and ensures greater independence and inclusion. Here’s a […]

Common Myths About Deaf People

Ways to Practice Your ASL

Daily Practice Ideas Practice With Others Classroom or Study-Based Practice Creative Practice Technology-Based Practice

Causes of Deafness

I. Genetic Causes These are inherited or caused by genetic mutations, either present at birth or progressive over time. II. Acquired Causes These are due to factors after conception and can occur prenatally, perinatally, or postnatally. A. Prenatal (before birth) B. Perinatal (during birth) C. Postnatal (after birth) III. Unknown or Idiopathic Causes In some cases, no identifiable […]

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Population in the United States (Expanded Overview)

1. Total Population with Hearing Loss However, this includes a wide range: 2. People Who Identify as Deaf or Seriously Hard of Hearing 3. Breakdown: Deaf vs. Hard of Hearing It’s important to distinguish: Group Estimate Notes Culturally Deaf (use ASL, strong Deaf identity) ~500,000 – 1,000,000 Use ASL as primary language Hard of Hearing (moderate-severe loss) ~10 million […]

Story of Thomas Gallaudet Meeting Laurent Clerc

The Story of Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc: The Birth of American Sign Language and America’s First Deaf School In the early 1800s, Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet was a young American minister from Connecticut who became deeply interested in Deaf education. His curiosity was sparked by a little Deaf girl named Alice Cogswell, the daughter of a neighbor. […]

Difference between VRS and VRI

Feature VRS (Video Relay Service) VRI (Video Remote Interpreting) Purpose Facilitates phone calls between a Deaf person and a hearing person using a sign language interpreter. Provides on-demand interpreting for in-person conversations when a Deaf and hearing person are physically together but need an interpreter remotely. Who Pays Funded by the federal government (FCC) — it’s free to users. Paid by the individual, business, […]

Salary Comparison Between State-certified and Nationally Certified Sign Language Interpreters

Salary Comparison: State-Certified vs. Nationally Certified ASL Interpreters Certification Level Average Annual Salary Hourly Rate Typical Work Settings State-Certified Interpreter $35,000 – $55,000 $18 – $30/hr K-12 education, local community events, basic medical or social services Nationally Certified Interpreter (RID) $60,000 – $90,000+ $30 – $60+/hr Legal, medical, postsecondary education, government contracts, high-stakes interpreting State-Certified […]