International (MNN) — Deaf individuals are often unintentionally overlooked by the hearing world around them. Communication barriers can isolate the Deaf into forgotten and underserved groups, especially during times of crisis.
This marginalization becomes even more severe in times of war. More about that here.
“For groups that experience inequality or marginalization, that vulnerability is incredibly heightened in wartime,” Rob Myers of DOOR International says.
(Photo courtesy of Ahmed akacha/Pexels)
As conflict spreads across the globe, survival becomes even harder for Deaf individuals. Communication barriers – like missing emergency alerts or not understanding soldiers’ commands – can quickly become life-threatening.
Sometimes, “they (Deaf people) struggle to get the critical care they need. If they try to go to the hospital during a war and no interpreters are available, no one can understand them,” Myers says.
The Deaf also tend to miss critical information. “Governments will make very important announcements, and either a sign language interpreter is unavailable, or that interpreter is not skilled,” Myers says.
As a result, “The information that they’re telling the Deaf audience is different or just plain wrong compared to the information that a hearing audience will receive.”
Despite these barriers, Deaf individuals often find creative ways to adapt.
“They will depend on hearing family members,” Myers says. “They will [use] social media to try to share information, [building] trusted networks.”
A shelter in the time of storm
DOOR International is currently ministering in several conflict zones, addressing the urgent needs of Deaf communities. Here’s how you can help. Donations help cover costs for staff evacuations, trauma healing workshops, and creative solutions that allow ministry efforts to continue.
In addition to physical hardship, Deaf communities also face spiritual isolation. Less than two percent of the global Deaf community can access the Good News in any sign language.
“That lack of information access (during war) carries over almost exactly in the case of spiritual understanding,” Myers says.
“Many Deaf people are cut off from the Gospel in their heart sign language and don’t have protection in the midst of this spiritual war.”
Pray for Deaf people worldwide to understand the truth of Jesus and His salvation. Consider partnering with DOOR International to help unreached Deaf people access the Gospel.
Header image is a representative stock photo courtesy of Emad El Byed/Unsplash.
