One of the ways the Deaf distinguish themselves as a culture is by capitalizing the word Deaf and working to change mainstream America’s attitude. The Deaf culture doesn’t believe in using the word "disabled" because that word makes implies “less than”—as though they are lacking something. By removing the label, they are also removing any stigma that might be attached.
“It’s about perspective,” Deaf advocate Eileen O’Banion said. “When you are Deaf, you see the world in a different way. You communicate differently. You seek out others who are Deaf because they understand you. You don’t believe you have a disability—and you don’t want to be fixed.”
In fact, some advocates even speak about "Deaf gain," a communication advantage afforded to those who must use means other than verbal language. The idea is that deaf people have more meaningful and intentional connection because they cannot hear.
