“…To enable persons with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in all aspects of life, …to ensure persons with disabilities have access, on an equal basis with others, to information and communications…”
(Article 9:1 – Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Optional Protocol)
The Real Meaning of Access
Imagine a world where everyone—regardless of ability—can live independently and take part in every aspect of life. That’s the heart of Article 9:1 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). It’s a call to action: make sure people with disabilities have the same access to information and communication as everyone else.
But how well are we really doing, especially for deaf people? In our fast-paced, information-driven world, access to information isn’t just a convenience—it’s a fundamental human right.
What Does “Access” Really Mean?
Access is more than just being present. Scholars like Jesse Ribot and Nancy Peluso describe access as “the ability to benefit from things”—whether that’s objects, people, institutions, or symbols. When it comes to communication, it’s about having the right to all expressions of knowledge and creativity. It’s not enough for information to exist; it must be available, understandable, and useful to everyone.
For deaf people, true access means creating environments where they can fully understand and engage with content, questions, and explanations. It’s about making sure information is accurate, relevant, and actionable—so everyone can make informed decisions.
Everyday Scenarios: The Power of Inclusion (or Exclusion)
Let’s bring this to life with two everyday situations:
Scenario 1: Everyone’s Included
Desmond and Lily are chatting. When Seth joins, a few things might happen:
- Desmond introduces Seth, and he joins in naturally.
- Desmond asks for Seth’s opinion, bringing him into the conversation.
- Seth listens and reacts—smiling, nodding—even if he’s not directly involved.
- Or, Seth jumps in without invitation and is welcomed.
In each case, Seth is acknowledged and included. He has the chance to participate.
Scenario 2: The Deaf Experience
Now, imagine Seth, who is a D/deaf or Hard-of-Hearing (DHH) individual. When he enters the conversation:
- Desmond may briefly greet Seth in sign language, then switch back to speaking with Lily.
- Or, Desmond introduces Seth as his deaf friend, but continues speaking with Lily heartily, leaving Seth out of the loop.
Often, Seth is left wondering: Should I join? Should I wait? Should I just leave? It’s isolating, sometimes even humiliating, to watch others laugh and connect while you’re left on the outside. Maybe Seth tries to catch their eye, silently saying, “I’m here too!” But more often than not, he ends up on his phone, disconnected from the group.
The Big Questions
How often do we put people like Seth in this position? How often do we overlook the right of deaf people to access information and participate in conversations? Should access be a courtesy, or is it a right? Does it even matter if someone is left out?
The answer is clear: unequal access to communication isn’t just about missing out on a chat. It reflects deeper inequalities of power, control, opportunity, and social participation. As researchers Lor and Britz put it, denying access isn’t just about suppressing ideas. It sidelines people from economic, political, academic, and cultural life. It strikes at the very heart of what it means to belong in the modern world.
Moving Forward: Making Access Real
Information only has value if it is accessible and understood by everyone. It’s up to each of us to create spaces—at work, at home, in our communities—where deaf people and others with disabilities are not just present, but truly included.
Let’s remember: inclusion isn’t just about being polite. It’s about recognizing the rights, dignity, and humanity of every person. Next time you’re in a conversation, ask yourself: Who’s being left out? And what can I do to ensure inclusion or prevent exclusion?
(Beautiful -D)
