ASLdeafined Blog » american sign language

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 […]

What Does it Mean to be Deaf?

When many people hear the word Deaf, they think of someone who can’t hear. While that’s true from a medical perspective, being Deaf is about much more than hearing loss—it’s about identity, culture, community, and language. Audiological vs. Cultural Deafness From an audiological standpoint, a Deaf person typically has a profound hearing loss, meaning they hear […]

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 […]

Degrees of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is measured in decibels (dB) — the unit of sound intensity.The more decibels lost, the more severe the hearing loss. Hearing loss typically falls into these five categories: Degree of Hearing Loss Hearing Level (dB) Description Common Experience Normal Hearing 0–25 dB Can hear soft sounds like whispering and rustling leaves. No difficulty hearing everyday speech. […]

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. […]

Becoming a Sign Language Interpreter: State vs. National Level

STATE-LEVEL INTERPRETER REQUIREMENTS Each state sets its own requirements for sign language interpreters, which may vary widely. However, common expectations include: Typical State-Level Requirements: Pros of State Certification: Limitations: NATIONAL-LEVEL INTERPRETER REQUIREMENTS National certification is typically obtained through RID (Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf), the recognized professional body in the U.S. Typical National-Level Requirements (RID Certification): […]

Comparison of ASL and PSE

1. Definition 2. Grammar & Syntax 3. Vocabulary 4. Usage 5. Fluency & Community Perception Summary Chart Feature ASL PSE Type Full natural language Contact sign system Grammar ASL-based (topic-comment) English word order (somewhat) Vocabulary Unique signs, classifiers ASL signs with English structure Used by Deaf community Hearing learners, some Deaf users Fluency recognition Highly valued Seen as less fluent

BRANCHING OUT TO LIBRARIES

ASLdeafined had fun at the Michigan Library Association conference in Port Huron last week! We look forward to hearing from some of the wonderful professionals we connected with to help us reach the goal of improving communication one sign at a time. It was also a pleasure to get to know our fellow exhibitors. It’s […]