Hearing-unaware

Describing an individual or group that lacks awareness of, or demonstrates a disregard for, the experiences, culture, and specific communication needs of Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. This often manifests as insensitivity to the limitations imposed by hearing loss, a lack of knowledge about sign language, and the absence of proactive accommodations for effective communication and inclusion. It can also encompass a lack of understanding of the systemic barriers faced by the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities, contributing to unintentional marginalization and exclusion. hearing-unaware behavior may range from simple ignorance to more overt forms of discrimination, although it is primarily characterized by a lack of consideration rather than intentional malice. The impact of hearing-unaware actions, irrespective of intent, can be profoundly isolating and limiting for those with hearing loss.

Hearing-unaware meaning with examples

• The new workplace policies were entirely hearing-unaware; they provided no captions for video meetings and failed to inform Deaf employees of important announcements made during audio-only gatherings. This led to a strong feeling of alienation and marginalization amongst the staff members who have a hearing impairment. They felt cut off and isolated from the daily workflow.
• The school's curriculum remained hearing-unaware, never incorporating sign language instruction or lessons about Deaf culture, leaving children with hearing loss feeling ostracized. The parents, staff and students with hearing impairment reported how the curriculum's blindness on the needs of hearing impairment severely impacted their experience within the institution and caused alienation.
• During the conference, the presenters were consistently hearing-unaware, speaking too quickly, using complex jargon, and not providing any visual aids, making it extremely difficult for hard-of-hearing attendees to follow the presentations effectively. This lack of consideration left the hard-of-hearing participants isolated and less able to take the lessons given.
• The marketing campaign was unintentionally hearing-unaware; it relied heavily on audio-only advertisements and failed to produce accessible versions for individuals who use other methods of communication, thereby excluding a segment of their potential customer base. This resulted in lost opportunities, and diminished brand loyalty.