in 1943 , further propelled by President Truman ' s 1948 executive order desegregating the armed services . Over time , inclusion gained momentum , notably through the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 , securing civil rights and accommodations for disabled people in educational and professional settings .
The term “ Audism ” was coined by Deaf Educator Tom Humphries in 1975 , highlighting the challenges confronted by the Deaf community . Historical oppression of deaf and hard of hearing individuals has taken various forms , including : Oralism , the denial of sign language , forced assimilation , discrimination , and eugenics movements that promoted the idea of “ improving ” the human population through selective breeding and sterilization .
Understanding audism has been impeded by historical oppression , highlighting the need to illuminate these issues for greater inclusivity and empathy . Audism perpetuates exclusion and discrimination , while inclusion fosters acceptance , equity , and belonging for all .
Examples contrasting inclusion and audism in various aspects of life
AUDISM : Picture someone presuming your abilities based solely on your hearing capabilities or lack thereof . Audism embodies these assumptions and unfair treatment . Holding fast to this type of assumption , it is akin to judging a fish for its inability to climb a tree – it ’ s a misguided comparison that disregards the fish ' s innate strengths , just like Deaf , DeafBlind , and Hard of Hearing people excel in numerous areas .
INCLUSION : Imagine a scenario where everyone is welcomed to participate , celebrated for their unique attributes , and valued equally . Inclusion embodies this ethos , akin to a joyous gathering where everyone feels appreciated and included , regardless of differences .
Education
INCLUSION : An inclusive classroom ensures that all students , including those who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing , have access to sign language interpreters , captioned videos , and inclusive teaching materials .
AUDISM : Audism may manifest in educational settings through the lack of accommodations , such as inaccessible learning materials , limited communication options , or a lack of awareness about Deaf culture and language .
Workplace
INCLUSION : In an inclusive workplace , Deaf employees have equal opportunities for advancement , access to communication technology like videophones or text-based communication tools , sign language interpreters and support for professional development .
AUDISM : Audism in the workplace can appear as discriminatory hiring practices , a lack of reasonable accommodations , or assumptions about a Deaf person ' s abilities based solely on their hearing status .
Media and Entertainment
INCLUSION : Inclusive media provides closed captions , sign language interpreters in broadcasts , podcasts , livestreams , music videos , musical concerts , and theatre performances , making content accessible to Deaf and Hard of Hearing audiences as well as to hearing audiences . In addition to captioning , sign language interpretation ensures that live events , such as news broadcasts , interviews , public announcements , music performances , musical concerts , and theatre plays , are inclusive and accessible to all .
AUDISM : Audism in media can occur when Deaf people are misrepresented , stereotyped , or portrayed as inferior due to their hearing status , reinforcing negative stereotypes and misconceptions . This can extend to the lack of sign language interpretation in media productions , limiting access for Deaf individuals to important information , entertainment content , and cultural experiences , including music videos .
Healthcare
INCLUSION : Inclusive healthcare settings offer sign language interpreters , accessible medical information , and healthcare professionals trained in Deaf culture and communication .
AUDISM : Audism may lead to healthcare disparities , such as a lack of understanding about Deaf patients ' needs , communication barriers during medical appointments , or limited access
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