Empowering Deaf and Hard of Hearing Talent

September brings a variety of observances for the deaf and hard of hearing communities. From September 9-13, we celebrated Lip Reading Awareness Week, highlighting how individuals with hearing loss or those who were born deaf or born hard of hearing are may use lip reading to enhance communication and understand speech. Following that, from September 20-26, we observe International Week of Deaf Awareness, which aims to improve communication between deaf and hearing individuals. Finally, September 23 also marks The International Day of Sign Language, celebrating linguistic and cultural diversity.

Inclusion in the workplace is something I’m really passionate about, especially within the context of DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) initiatives. It’s important to acknowledge that disabilities like hearing loss are often invisible, meaning they can be overlooked. For those who are deaf or hard of hearing, the challenges they face can significantly affect their communication, relationships, and overall well-being. I believe it's important for all of us to be aware of these unique experiences and work together to create a more supportive environment.

Invisible Disabilities: A Personal Journey

When I was in elementary school, my teachers labeled me as defiant because I often didn’t follow directions. While all children can be rebellious at times, there was an underlying reason for my behavior. It wasn’t until I moved to a different school district that they conducted an evaluation for learning disabilities, which revealed that I didn't hear as well as my peers.

After undergoing several hearing examinations, I received a diagnosis at age six: mild to moderately severe sensorineural hearing loss and mild to moderately severe conductive hearing loss both with high pitch frequency.

Sensorineural hearing loss affects the cochlea and the hair cells within the auditory nerves, while conductive hearing loss is related to the size and function of the ear canal. In my situation, I was diagnosed with both types of hearing loss, which significantly contributed to my disability.

My ear canals are abnormally small, which creates a barrier for sound waves trying to travel through. This makes it difficult for sounds to reach my inner ear effectively. On top of that, my cochleas have damaged hair cells or some are missing. These hair cells are responsible for sound vibrations into electrical signals that are sent to the auditory nerve, allowing the brain to interpret them as sound. Unfortunately, because my hair cells are damaged or missing, they struggle to perform this function. As a result, even when sound waves do manage to reach the cochlea, the signals are not transmitted effectively to the auditory nerve.

To simplify, my experience of hearing is quite unique, I don’t know what I can’t hear because I don't hear it. This creates challenges in everyday situations, from participating in conversations to enjoying music. Grasping this aspect of my hearing loss has not only helped me navigate my environment but also allowed me to gain a unique perspective and empathy for those with disabilities.

This diagnosis was a turning point for me. I was fortunate to be placed in therapy sessions focused on hearing and speech, which began in first grade. These sessions provided me with essential tools and support to navigate my challenges. I learned how to lip-read from my first therapist, and this skill has been invaluable in my adult life. I worked diligently with my therapists and made significant progress over the years. I continued these intervention courses all the way through high school, which greatly contributed to my communication skills and confidence.

In my everyday life, I rely on closed captioning when watching TV or videos, whenever it’s available. I also use closed captioning during meetings, which I find to be an essential tool. It helps me catch the words I might miss or mishear. Having access to notes after meetings and live captions is incredibly valuable for me. Although I can take my own notes, I often worry that I might miss important information or misinterpret directions.

Over the years, I have gained more confidence in expressing my needs. In my younger adult life, I wasn’t always open about my hearing loss or my need for assistance, often out of fear of being labeled or perceived as incapable of doing my job without "help".

It's intriguing that when I disclose my disability, I often receive comments like, "I would never have guessed! You look and sound completely normal. Are you sure it’s not just selective hearing?" This highlights how stereotypes and the nature of invisible disabilities can impact perceptions in the workplace.

However, today I proudly acknowledge my hearing loss and assert that it does not define me or my abilities. I’ve learned to stand up for myself, making sure I have the tools and support I need to thrive.

Promoting Inclusivity in the Workplace

Human Resources plays a vital role in fostering an inclusive work environment that meets the diverse needs of all employees. By implementing strategic initiatives, HR can effectively dismantle communication barriers and ensure equal opportunities for professional growth, particularly for deaf individuals. Tailored continuing education programs are essential for equipping deaf employees with the skills they need to compete in the job market, helping them enhance their qualifications and increasing their chances for career advancement over time.

Additionally, removing communication barriers is crucial for creating an inclusive workplace. This can be achieved by introducing assistive technologies, providing sign language interpreters, and establishing accessible communication methods. By cultivating a culture that emphasizes clear communication, HR can bridge the gap between hearing and hard-of-hearing employees, fostering better collaboration and teamwork.

Raising awareness about the strengths and potential of deaf individuals is another important responsibility for HR. Organizing training sessions that highlight the skills of deaf colleagues can help promote inclusivity and challenge stereotypes.

Furthermore, HR should prioritize policies and practices that support diversity, equity, and inclusion, creating a workplace culture where every employee feels valued and empowered, regardless of their hearing ability.

Data from the NDC’s dashboard in 2023 reveals a significant employment gap that only 54% of deaf individuals are employed compared to 70% of their hearing counterparts. This disparity is even more pronounced among deaf people of color, deaf disabled individuals, face even higher unemployment rates. Furthermore, deaf disabled individuals may struggle to find supportive work environments that accommodate their unique needs, leading to even greater levels of unemployment and underemployment. Addressing these disparities requires targeted efforts to promote inclusivity and accessibility in the workforce, as well as raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by these communities.

In my experience at work and during conferences, it's often the case that ASL interpreters, CART services, or lip-reading assistants are not present during meetings. While these services may be available, they are often not communicated in a positive or proactive manner by the event organizers or employers. This lack of clear communication can leave deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals to search for information on how to access assistance, which can be an uncomfortable and daunting process.

When I attend events or meetings where a display shows everything the speaker is saying in real-time, word for word, I feel an immense sense of relief. Having this type of support allows me to focus entirely on the content being presented without the added stress of worrying about missing important information. I don’t have to ask for additional assistance or clarification, which can sometimes feel disruptive. Instead, I can immerse myself in the event, participate more actively, and engage in discussions with confidence.

It is essential that the availability of services is clearly communicated ahead of time, empowering individuals to ask for what they need confidentially. This accessibility not only enhances my experience but also fosters a more inclusive environment where everyone can contribute and feel valued.

Management plays a crucial role in cultivating an inclusive workplace for deaf and hard of hearing employees. By prioritizing effective communication strategies, raising awareness about diverse needs, and implementing supportive policies, management can help eliminate barriers to participation. Investing in ongoing education and professional development opportunities not only empowers deaf employees but also enriches the organization as a whole, enhancing overall workplace dynamics.

Lip Reading Awareness #ReadMyLips

Making these small adjustments can significantly improve life for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals who depend on lipreading. Such considerations may seem minor, but they can have a profound impact.

1. Maintain eye contact and show your mouth.
2. Be sure that the light source is in front of you. Don't stand in front of a window.
3. Re-phrase if needed, or write it down.
4. Try a voice to text app. Download the Google Live Transcribe app or other similar apps. These apps display what you are saying as text on the screen of your phone.
5. Keep it simple.
6. Don't exaggerate mouth movements or shout - no one enjoys being shouted at.

International Deaf Awareness #IDSL #BlueLight

Top 10 Inclusion Tips

On September 23, 2024, public places, landmarks, and official buildings to city halls will be lit up in blue. This event aims to raise awareness about national sign languages and show support for the global deaf community.

The blue lighting serves as a strong reminder of our commitment to inclusivity and understanding for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. By illuminating these buildings, we highlight the importance of communication access and celebrate the diversity of sign languages around the world.

This initiative encourages us to create a more welcoming environment for everyone. It emphasizes the need for ongoing discussions about accessibility and support, ensuring that the voices of the deaf community are heard and respected.

Embrace Technology

Identify the needs of deaf employees, Enhance accessibility by using emails for important updates instead of just notes. Ensure safety alerts, like vibrating phones for fire alarms, are available.

Explore Resources

Consider outside support like job coaches from agencies s which can be provided at no cost to your company.

Communication Methods

Utilize sign language interpreters, speech-to-text services, and other tools to empower deaf employees.

Interpreter

Provide interpreters for meetings and social events to ensure full access to information.

Review Recruitment

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Employment Guide

Ensure your hiring process and website are accessible and promote inclusivity for diverse applicants. Make it clear the accessibility that is offered

Conduct Awareness Training

Offer training to raise awareness about deafness and improve communication skills, fostering a more inclusive workplace.

The International Day of Sign Language #signlanguage

The International Day of Sign Languages is a chance to celebrate and protect the language and culture of deaf people and sign language users. In 2023, this day will highlight how sign languages bring people together. Deaf communities, governments, and organizations will work together to support and recognize national sign languages as important parts of their diverse languages.

Celebrating and Learning

Attend a sign language event to celebrate the International Day of Sign Languages and Deaf culture. Support Deaf-owned businesses and organizations, and engage your friends, family, and colleagues in conversations about sign language and Deaf culture.

Citations:

1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2021). Title of the article. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8594914/

2. Deaf Umbrella. (2023). Lipreading Awareness Week. https://www.deafumbrella.com/post/lipreading-awareness-week

3. Deaf Umbrella. (2023). How to communicate with people who rely on lipreading. https://www.deafumbrella.com/post/how-to-communicate-with-people-who-rely-on-lipreading

4. World Economic Forum. (2022). International Day of Sign Languages: A call to action for businesses. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/09/international-day-sign-languages-hearing-impaired-business/

5. World Federation of the Deaf. (2024). International Week of Deaf People 2024. https://wfdeaf.org/iwdeaf2024/

6. United Nations. (n.d.). International Day of Sign Languages. https://www.un.org/en/observances/sign-languages-day

7. National Deaf Center. (2021). Supporting deaf people: Closing the employment gap. https://nationaldeafcenter.org/news-items/supporting-deaf-people-closing-the-employment-gap/

8. Hearing Tracker. (n.d.). Sensorineural hearing loss. https://www.hearingtracker.com/hearing-loss/sensorineural-hearing-loss

9. National Deaf Center. (2020). Top 10 tips for working with deaf and hard of hearing individuals. https://nationaldeafcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/VR_Top_10_Tips.pdf

10. Invisible Disabilities Association. (n.d.). What is an invisible disability? https://invisibledisabilities.org/what-is-an-invisible-disability/

11. Deaf Umbrella. (2023). Lipreading Awareness Week. https://www.deafumbrella.com/post/lipreading-awareness-week (duplicate)

12. Adecco Group. (2022). 7 ways to create inclusive workplaces for deaf employees. https://www.adeccogroup.com/future-of-work/latest-insights/7-ways-to-create-inclusive-workplaces-for-deaf-employees

13. Living With Hearing Loss. (2016). Lipreading in paradise. https://livingwithhearingloss.com/2016/04/19/lipreading-in-paradise/

14. "Image of American Sign Language (ASL) hand signs. Source: Frederick Interpreting (https://www.frederickinterpreting.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/asl.jpg)."

15. Image of American Sign Language (ASL) fingerspelling. Source: Hearing Like Me (https://www.hearinglikeme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/1200px-American_Sign_Language_ASL.svg-1200x480.png)."

16. "Image related to sensorineural hearing loss. Source: Hearing Tracker (https://www.hearingtracker.com/hearing-loss/sensorineural-hearing-loss)."

17. Living With Hearing Loss. (2016). Lipreading in paradise. https://livingwithhearingloss.com/2016/04/19/lipreading-in-paradise/

18. "Image of the Shine a Light on Disability campaign. Source: United Nations (https://www.un.org/sites/un2.un.org/files/background_shine_blue.jpg)."