Deaf experience : Deaf people often use ASL to communicate in personal settings , and social gatherings may require interpreters or written communication . Music and entertainment are experienced visually or through vibrations , and Deaf people may rely on captions or tactile aids such as SubPac vests . A SubPac vest allows you to feel sound through vibrations , enhancing music , gaming , and VR experiences . It adds a physical dimension to sound for a more immersive experience .
In professional settings :
Hearing experience : In the workplace , hearing people can participate in meetings , phone calls , and networking events without barriers . Professional environments are designed around sound-based communication , making interactions seamless .
Deaf experience : Deaf professionals may require interpreters or captioning in meetings , and socializing at professional events can be challenging without these supports . However , with proper accommodations like VRS or captions , Deaf professionals can thrive in their workspaces .
Inclusion in music
Music is often perceived as a purely auditory experience , but it can be inclusive in ways that go beyond sound . Many Deaf people enjoy music through vibrations , rhythm , and visual elements like synchronized lights . Providing lyrics transcripts and captions alongside music ensures that everyone can engage with the message behind the music .
Concerts , videos , and performances can be made more inclusive by incorporating interpreters , captions , and sensory-friendly options , ensuring that music is accessible to all .
Personally , I hold deep respect for artists who prioritize inclusion , not out of pity but from a genuine desire to create space for everyone . Coming from a musical family , I hope to deepen my own appreciation of music by purchasing a SubPac vest , which will allow me to feel the vibrations more intensely . Once I have it , I plan to write about my experience of inclusion through music .
Misconceptions about Deafness and hearing people
Misunderstandings between Deaf and hearing people are common but can be resolved through education .
Misconceptions hearing people have about Deafness
All Deaf people can read lips : Lip-reading is difficult , with only about 30-40 % accuracy . Many Deaf people prefer ASL or written communication .
Deaf people can ’ t enjoy music : Music isn ’ t solely about sound . Deaf people engage with music through vibrations and visual cues .
Deaf people can ’ t communicate without interpreters : Many communicate effectively through ASL , written text , or technology like video relay services ( VRS ), and do not always need interpreters .
Misconceptions Deaf people may have about hearing people
All hearing people can read lips : Most hearing people don ’ t have lip-reading skills and rely on spoken communication .
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