Thanks operatorhere, I enjoy visiting these boards. I think it's natural for any individual or group who feels misunderstood, unappreciated, or devalued to become defensive when confronted by what is perceived to be a sweeping generaliztion, or stereotype. The d/Deaf certainly fall into this group. Defending oneself or ones group can take on a life of its own. The problem is compounded when that group can't "fight back" that is, explain their position. Essentially the problem with being deaf is , for many not so much the deafness as it is the inability to speak- or speak well. It is the reason the ASL sign for hearing is actually the index and middle fingers of the right hand making small circles in front of the mouth-referance to the ability to speak and not the ability to hear. Without good language skills the only thing to rely on is name calling, cursing, "revenge tactics" or even fists.
Probably many if not all of you belong to a "minority" group of one sort or another, physical, cultural, racial, religious, gender or sexually based etc.. It is handy to picture how you react or feel when you or others like you are criticised or feel threatened. It's not for me to preach but imagine yourself defending yourself without the ability to speak or make your postiion known. When a deaf person tries to defend themselves really all the hearing person needs to do is look down or turn away and the subject is closed.
I realize these boards are for you as RO's CA's current or past,therefore it is the place to express yourselves and who am I to say you shouldn't do it? It is enlightening for me to hear the other side of the story. It gives me an opportunity to defend you all when the topic comes up, because I can become your voice the way you become mine. As much as you value my input I find yours also very valuable.
Through it all you have chosen, for whatever reasons to help us. Some of you may have entered into the waters out of "wanting to serve", others for strictly financial, logistical, or other reasons- nevertheless you have a connection with us. d/Deaf as you know, have a special relationship with interpreters often viewing them as deaf no matter what their hearing status. Personally, I feel the same way towards many of you. Unfortunately, with interpreters (usually) there is a personal interchange and they are not putting up with scammers, pranksters and others or bosses who keep their fingers up the nose of the interpreter, while they are working. Yes, your job is not to be an interpreter but from what I see you do everything you can to help those that you see are legitimate, despite the lack of English skills or education. In any job one gets a "feel" for their "customer" and that sense is what can make the differance between an adequate and great CA.
I don't know if you are provided with any desensitisation training or anything but if you aren't provided with it you should be. Developing a think skin on ones own is rough. I know I would start taking things personally, even if I tried not to if left on my own. You are in an army of sorts but without the support of your commanders, appropriate tools and limited weapons. That is bound to take a toll.
Unfortunately, my voice is one and too small to effect a change overall. Constantly "beating" at a problem is a method to effect change. All of you "beating" at the problems you face at every meeting or opportunity can effect change-but maybe at too big an emotional cost- dunno.
Again, I tip my cap to you all!
Hello again speedial! I hope you had a lovely valentines day... I am just posting to tell you that I think your posts are ALWAYS informative, thoughtful and insightful. It gives our operators the deaf point of view without the argumentative and defensive part that we sometimes get from the deaf folks. We all appreciate you here.
