FAQ

Why should I work with a deaf consultant?

There is a simple answer: there is no substitute for lived experience. The first step in becoming deaf-friendly is to understand that deaf people are not simply “hearing people who don’t hear” – we have a unique approach to the world because we are visually oriented. “Nothing about us without us” isn’t just a slogan, it’s an essential part of making sure deaf people have a sense of belonging in your museum.

I am in a country where English and American Sign Language are not used. Can you still support my museum in becoming more deaf-friendly?

Yes! The deaf community is transnational, meaning that we are often comfortable interacting with people from around the world thanks to sharing deafness in common. I use International Sign to communicate with non-ASL signers, and I have traveled quite extensively. I have worked in Slovakia, Japan, and Italy, and with European NGOs. I am happy to work with museums and deaf individuals across the globe (travel availability depends on US Department of State guidelines).

I am used to seeing uppercase “Deaf” in materials about the community, but you use lowercase “deaf.” Why?

I am one of a growing number of deaf people who believes the d/Deaf dichotomy puts walls between us, and we are stronger together. I use “deaf” to refer to anyone whose engagement with the world is affected by their hearing ability. This includes people who use sign language and those who do not; people who use hearing instruments and those who do not; people who associate with deaf community and culture and those who do not. I especially enjoy making sure that sound-based exhibits are accessible to deaf people with a variety of hearing experiences.