September is D/deaf Awareness Month
Every September, D/deaf Awareness Month shines a light on the experiences, languages, and identities of Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind communities. It’s a time to raise awareness about communication access, support sign language rights, and foster inclusion across all areas of life.
The Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department (AD) is proud to stand with local and global partners in advancing equity, language access, and the full participation of people of all ages and abilities.
This annual observance includes:
International Week of Deaf People: (September 22–28, 2025) This year’s theme: “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights”.
International Day of Sign Languages: (September 23, 2025) Recognizing the importance of sign languages for equal rights and access.
More on the history and themes: World Federation of the Deaf (wfdeaf.org/)
Understanding and Supporting Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind Communities
Why It Matters
Hearing loss is one of the most common conditions impacting older adults—affecting 1 in 3 people over age 65. But hearing differences exist across all age groups and backgrounds. D/deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals are part of a vibrant community with rich languages, cultures, and histories.
Yet, without accessible communication and inclusive design, many people face barriers to essential services, health care, education, and public life.
Know Your Communication Rights (ADA Guidance)
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), public agencies and businesses must provide effective communication with people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or DeafBlind.
This may include:
Qualified sign language interpreters
Video Remote Interpreting (VRI)
Real-time captioning or transcription services
Written materials in accessible formats
If you need communication access for a County service or event, you can request an accommodation under the ADA.
Learn more: ADA.gov Effective Communication Overview
Tips for Everyday Interaction
Ask the person how they prefer to communicate — don’t assume.
Face the person when speaking and avoid covering your mouth.
Writing, texting, or using speech-to-text apps can be useful for simple exchanges.
Never shout — this doesn’t improve comprehension.
Use gestures or wave to get someone’s attention respectfully.
When using an ASL interpreter, speak directly to the Deaf person — not the interpreter.
Commonly used terms
According to the Disability Rights California (disabilityrights.org):
Writing “D/deaf” with the uppercase and lowercase letter “d” is useful when you aren’t sure how someone identifies. The D/deaf community is not a monolith, so it’s a best practice to ask someone what terms they prefer, because each person’s journey with their identity is different.
Lower-case “small-d” deaf, refers to people who are medically deaf and may use devices such as cochlear implants. They may not have had exposure to the Deaf community because of their upbringing or due to losing hearing gradually.
“Deaf” with a capital “D” refers to people who consider themselves part of Deaf culture through things like sign language, advocacy, pride in the Deaf identity, and more.
“Hard of Hearing” refers to mild-to-severe hearing loss. People who identify as “hard of hearing” may be members of Deaf culture or may not identify as culturally deaf.
The community prefers the full term “Deaf and Hard of Hearing” instead of “Hearing Impaired,” but it’s always best to ask how each individual person identifies.
Explore the Culture
Sign language is more than a communication tool — it’s central to D/deaf identity and culture.
American Sign Language (ASL) is a fully developed language with its own grammar, syntax, and nuances — not a word-for-word version of English.
People who identify as Deaf (capital D) often see their deafness as part of a shared cultural experience, not as a disability.
Tactile signing is one way DeafBlind individuals communicate, using touch-based forms of ASL.
Did you know? The wave-hands “silent applause” is a cherished part of Deaf cultural expression! Check out this visual from Lifeprint.
“DEAF APPLAUSE”
Can also mean “Yay!” and “Hurrah!” or “Kudos.”
Hold your hands in the air and twist them a couple of times.
Resources
Try Learning ASL
ASL University (Lifeprint) www.lifeprint.com
Handspeak www.handspeak.com
Free apps:
The ASL App theaslapp.com
SignSchool www.signschool.com
Lingvano www.lingvano.com/ASL
Find a Sign Language Interpreter (Registry)
Need to secure an interpreter for an event or appointment? Use the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) to find certified professionals.
Search the RID Registry
Local & Statewide Resources
GLAD (Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness)
📞 (323) 478-8000 gladinc.org
Advocacy, interpreting services, community programs
211 LA
📞 Dial 2-1-1 211la.org
24/7 info on local health & human services, including Deaf resources
California Deaf Access Program (DAP)
cdss.ca.gov/deaf-access
Offers free communication assistance statewide
National Association of the Deaf (NAD)
nad.org
Civil rights advocacy, legal info, and national resources
DPSS language services
https://dpss.lacounty.gov/en/rights/rights/language-services.html
LA Superior Court interpreter portal
https://www.lacourt.ca.gov/pages/lp/americans-with-disabilities-act-ada/cp/i-am-deaf-or-hard-of-hearing-d-hh
Infographics & Visual Resources
Want to explore Deaf culture in a visual way? Check out these illustrated guides (credit: Unusualverse.com):
5 Things You Didn’t Know About the Deaf
5 Things You Didn’t Know About Deaf Culture
