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Deaf Culture

Deaf culture is recognized under Article 30, Paragraph 4 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which states that "Persons with disabilities shall be entitled, on an equal basis with others, to recognition and support of their specific cultural and linguistic identity, including sign languages and deaf culture."

Some highlights of the Deaf and of Deaf Cultures are outlined as follows:

- They are members of the Deaf community and Deaf culture.

- They are proud to be Deaf and feel that Deafness is a vital part of their identity, cherished as much as ethnicity, gender, and religious backgrounds.

- People in this cultural group most likely attend residential schools for the deaf, use of the local Sign Language, and view Deafness as a difference rather than a disability.

- Deaf people often feel a cultural bond with one another based on sharing a common language; and experience of oppression.

- Although they most likely recognize sign language as their primary/native language, they may also, or may not, use speech to communicate.

Due to its differences in language, the Deaf community has developed a set of etiquette rules for dealing with each other and hearing individuals as well. For example, they have rules for interrupting or leaving a conversation and often seem blunt to other hearing individuals.  They are highly connected to each other as well, keeping each other informed about everything.  After all, even in large cities, they are a fairly small group and need that constant communication to maintain the unity they cherish.

If anyone interested to learn the language of the Deaf, please click here

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