This chapter was extremely beneficial, because like many others, I have never truly known what the difference was between using the word 'Deaf' as a noun or an adjective. It is interesting to see how the book explains the usage of this word. Although the writer, Shushano Long explains that she was told "NOT to use deaf as a NOUN" (pg 245), its shown throughout the chapter that the usage of the word, deaf, truly depends on the people and the context it is used in.
By using the word 'deaf' to mean a Deaf person, it is considered to be unacceptable by many people and some take it as an insult. "It devalues the humanity of deaf people" (pg 246). Although I had never thought about it before, it makes sense that they would want to be seen as people first rather than just being deaf.
However, this chapter also explained that the "the Deaf" is surprisingly acceptable within the Deaf community, mainly if it is used to represent a deaf organization or institution.
I loved reading about this topic because its not only interesting, but it is information that could benefit any future encounters with those in the Deaf community. It's great to learn the cultural aspects of this language and how to be respectful of people with this culture.
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