Understanding Deaf Cultural Trauma: How It Affects Our Work

Deaf people experience cultural trauma in physical, emotional, and mental ways that we may not yet comprehend. Hearing individuals are often unaware of how audism, or prejudice against the Deaf, affects productivity and economic prosperity.

Jun 23, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT
Zoom
.2 PPO CEUs (RID/BEI)
Hosted by C Wood
Download flyer here

Longer Event Description

Audism, or prejudice against hearing differences, has deeply affected the Deaf community for
decades. Deaf people were once considered the finest editors in town, assistants to rules, and the
majority of instructors at Deaf schools. This all came crashing down in the 1880s when they were
framed as incapable by a deficit ideology – which contributed greatly to their isolation from society.
Sign language was banned and language deprivation increased.

Deaf people have experienced a lot of suffering and trauma, whether it is directly or indirectly
caused by shared experiences. The collective experience is also known as cultural trauma. Cultural
trauma can be experienced in different ways. However, the unique impact on the Deaf community
as well as the rest of the world is often overlooked. Have you ever wondered why Deaf people are
stereotyped as those who often overshare, react angrily, or rely heavily on government programs?

The effects of these events can be reduced when we take action to recognize the community’s
shared historical experiences and our part in the bigger picture. As a professional in the Deaf
community, your position is more vital than ever. Identifying and preventing triggers is a critical
leadership skill. You’ll discover how to utilize tactics like microaffirmations and holding space to aid in group healing and breaking down systematic barriers. Finally, you’ll learn how crucial self-
care is not just for your own well-being but also for the community members you serve.