Be an ally for deaf people in the workplace

It’s no small statement to say that deaf history in the UK gained visibility through the establishment of The British Deaf and Dumb Association (BDDA, now BDA, British Deaf Association), founded by Francis Maginn in 1890. Though “dumb” in relation to deafness is now considered a slur, the founding of this association stemmed from Maginn’s desire to hand deaf people the power to make decisions on their own behalf. Hearing people did not know the intimate needs of the deaf, only the deaf did.

The BDA has helped deaf people to achieve gainful employment and higher status in society. In 2017, according to Hearing Link, 65% of those with hearing loss are employed, compared with 79% of hearing people. In the U.S., the employment rate of deaf people is 53% (as of 2017), and with salaries comparable to those of hearing people.

For a deaf employee (let’s call her “Abby”), the workplace can be fraught with frustration, stress, and misunderstandings. Any group setting is a challenge, especially at lunchtime, and Abby wants to engage with her coworkers and get to know them better. One-on-one conversations are easier, but coworkers seem more likely to lunch in groups. Then an impromptu meeting can come up, and of course there is no interpreter, captioner or professional lipspeaker on hand, which can send Abby into a slight panic, wondering how she’s going to be able to gather this important information so she can continue working on a par with her hearing employees.

This is where you, a hearing person, can position yourself as an ally for deaf people in the workplace. It’s not as difficult as you might think.

Staff meetings can be a source of stress for deaf people so Abby could really use your help. She may not be so willing to ask for it, though. A simple way to help is to ask her, “Would you like me to take notes during the meeting?” It’s that simple. She may say yes or she may decline, but you can still go ahead and jot down the important bits of information. After the meeting, you can inform her that you took notes, anyway, and if she wanted to take a look at them, you have them ready for her.

This thoughtful move will help Abby to feel less isolated and more likely to feel like she has an ally in the workplace.

Every deaf person you meet has different communication needs but there’s one that all deaf people share in common: the need for face-to-face contact. It’s crucial to always face Abby when you’re speaking with her. Avoid covering your mouth and enunciate your words clearly. Avoid mumbling or exaggerating your speech; stick with your natural way of speaking. Nothing annoys Abby more than someone who exaggerates the way they talk.

How deaf employees feel is a biggie. Everyone likes feeling important at work. Growing up deaf often comes with isolation, so if you notice Abby not participating in activities or engaging at an office party, make a point of approaching her and asking her if she’d like company or if she can sit with you. Tell her that her participation in office activities is important and appreciated.

Are there other ways you think you can be an ally for deaf people in the workplace? Please share in the comments below!

Guest Author: Juana Poareo