In the 1970s, a Deaf scholar named Dr. Tom Humphries invented a new word: “audism.” It meant “the notion that one is superior based on one’s ability to hear or behave in the manner of one who hears.” Audism isn’t just discrimination against those who are Deaf and hard of hearing. It’s a belief that pervades our systems and people. It’s the feeling, deep in the bones and seared into the consciousness of hearing people, that people who are Deaf are beneath those who can hear. That we’re not worthy of people’s time and attention. Of gaining access to language, education, information,
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