by Sam Smith The media is constantly being pushed to be more diverse and inclusive of all groups, but it seems deaf people are often overlooked. When they are included, it is important that they are portrayed accurately because it not only educates people that do not know about deaf people, but it also gives young deaf people characters they can relate to and look up to. The National Association of the Deaf said, “Media representations lack authenticity and present a distorted view of the deaf and hard of hearing community, and this misrepresentation deprives the public of an accurate understanding of a community that is rich in culture and language.” While representation for deaf people in the media could be much better, there are several deaf people who have been representing the community very well.
Nyle DiMarco
Marlee Matlin
Sean Berdy
Sean Berdy is best known for his role as Emmett in the show Switched at Birth. Many credit Berdy with giving them a reason to learn sign language. Berdy was also involved in the first ever attempt at a sign along feature for a movie. Ice Age: Continental Drift had an option where viewers could watch the movie and see Berdy and Amber Zion sign along with what the characters in the movie were saying. This has caused a push for other movies to do the same so deaf children can follow along easier with movies.Millicent Simmonds
Millicent Simmonds is best known for starring as Regan Abbott in the hit movie A Quiet Place. The director, John Krasinski, fought to cast Simmonds as his on-screen daughter to keep the movie authentic. This made many people in the deaf community excited for the movie, likely helping it to be such a box office hit. Simmonds’ amazing role helps show that casting deaf people to play deaf characters is important, not only for the story, but for the people the character will represent.Chella Man
Chella Man is a deaf transgender activist, artist, model and now, actor. He was recently cast to play Jericho in the DC show, Titans. Man has constantly spoken out about disabilities and representation. He feels that his role in Titans is imperative for representation, not only for the deaf but also for transgender people. He is also the first deaf and transgender person to be signed with the modeling agency IMG. These are just a few amazing examples of deaf people in the spotlight. All five of these people are talented and have helped shape the way many view the deaf community. Hopefully their success can help pave the way for better representation for deaf people in the media in the future.The National Association of the Deaf Nyle DiMarco Foundation he Sign Language Company Huffington Post Glaad Hearing Like Me Nyle DiMarco