LETTER: Ignorance: The worst handicap of all

Dear Editor,

This is in response to the letter to the editor, “The Deaf are Handicapped,” printed Friday. First of all, I want to know what qualifies her to be able to say the things she said in her letter? Does she personally know any deaf people? Perhaps she was offended by a deaf person. Or maybe she is just afraid. Whatever the case may be, I find it offensive that a person who does not have any close ties or affiliation with the deaf community feels they can make such bold and ignorant statements just because the dictionary says so.

Secondly, as a son of deaf parents, I was privileged with the opportunity of growing up bilingually and biculturally. I learned the value and importance of acceptance, having a positive attitude and respecting differences. I have also learned that deaf people can do anything but hear. Unfortunately, deaf people have always been oppressed and looked at in a negative light. They are made out to be people who are drastically different from the “majority” and who stand in need of sympathy and special accommodations. The letter ended by stating that deaf people are “ignoring their problem” when they choose not to label themselves as being handicapped. It follows that up with a plea for working toward a “better understanding of the deaf culture, and a world which is more accepting and accommodating of the hearing impaired.” Not only are these ideas contradictory, they make no sense! There can be no understanding without first having respect. Upon having respect, it is then possible to begin to understand the perspectives and beliefs held by others.

There are plenty of barriers already in place thanks to other ignorant “professionals” and educators, the last thing we need is people spreading more pessimistic views and myths about the deaf. If you really want to learn more about the deaf, talk with them!

(Yes, they can communicate just fine with “the majority”.)

Barry Utley