09/10/2026
Language evolves, and the terms we use to describe hearing differences carry real weight.
During Deaf Awareness Month this September, we want to highlight the importance of using respectful, community-approved terminology. Historically, clinical and public spaces frequently used the phrase "hearing impaired." However, many individuals, advocacy groups, and educators now ask to retire that term because it centers entirely on what a person lacks.
Instead, preferred language reflects how people actually define their own identity:
- Deaf (Capital D): Refers to members of the Deaf community who connect through shared culture, history, and sign language.
- Hard of Hearing: Refers to individuals who rely on spoken language to communicate while managing changes in their hearing.
- deaf (lowercase d): Refers to the physical state of having reduced or absent hearing.
Replacing outdated labels with person-centered, respectful language helps create truly welcoming environments across our workplaces, schools, and neighborhoods.
Building an inclusive community starts with listening, learning, and choosing words that honor every person's identity.
