Deaf, Not Dumb” — Stop the Pity and the Labels: Empower Deaf Lives Through Language and Respect

Cheryll Atienza
Jul 14, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Jul 14, 2025

Proud Deaf individuals using sign language with empowering words in the background — Empowering the Deaf Community With Inclusive Language and Pride

The World Needs to Stop Using “Deaf and Dumb”

It’s 2025—and yet many people still use the hurtful, outdated phrase “Deaf and Dumb.” Let’s be very clear: this label is offensive, incorrect, and should never be used in any setting.

Whether you’re Deaf or hearing, this message is for you: never write the word “dumb” in a resume, interview, introduction, or on any document or event form. It’s not professional, not respectful, and absolutely not okay.

Deaf people are smart, capable, and full of potential. They can drive, write, create, lead, travel the world, and run businesses. They don’t need pity—they need equality, access, and language that respects their identity.

❌ “Deaf and Dumb”: The Damage Behind the Words

Many people don’t realize that calling someone “dumb” has two meanings:

Historically meant “non-speaking.”
Today, it commonly means “stupid.”

This creates a terrible misunderstanding. It sends a dangerous message that Deaf people are not smart—which is completely false.

Using “Deaf and Dumb” continues to:

💔 Insult the intelligence of Deaf individuals
❌ Erase the beauty of sign language and Deaf culture
🚫 Block opportunities in education, employment, and society
💢 Remind Deaf people of the discrimination they’ve faced

It’s time to say: No more.

Educate the World: Why Language Matters

Words shape beliefs. Labels influence how we treat people. When you change the language, you change the mindset.

Important truths about Deaf individuals:

Deaf people are not broken. They just communicate differently.
Deaf people can write, read, speak (if they choose), sign, and express themselves clearly.
Deaf people can drive, travel, fly, manage teams, and lead organizations.
Deaf people are not mute—they just may use sign language as their natural voice.

🛑 Never Write These Words on Any Paper or Document

Whether it's a:

Resume
Job application
School form
Medical form
Presentation bio
Conference registration
Social event form

Do NOT write:

“Deaf and Dumb”
“Dumb”
“Mute”
“Retarded”
“Monkey”
“Poor Deaf”

These words cause pain, promote stereotypes, and are no longer acceptable. Don’t label yourself that way. Don’t let others label you either.

Empowerment: Deaf People Don’t Need Pity

Too often, Deaf people hear things like:

“Oh, I feel sorry for you.”
“That must be hard.”
“How do you manage?”

Here’s the truth: Deaf people don’t want your pity.They want your respect.

Deaf people can:

Drive cars and motorcycles
Travel internationally
Fly in airplanes
Use social media
Start businesses
Graduate from college
Raise families
Create art and film
Lead teams and organizations

They are proud of who they are. They don’t need to be “fixed.” They need to be seen, heard, and included—on their terms.

What You SHOULD Say on a Resume or in an Interview

“My name is [Full Name]. I am Deaf and may require a sign language interpreter for communication access.”

That’s all. No need to say “Deaf and Dumb.” No need to explain anything about your worth or ability. You are enough as you are.

🌍 Time for Change: Replace Harm with Truth

Let’s all agree to retire the word “dumb” forever—especially when talking about Deaf people.

Use these instead:

Deaf
Hard of Hearing
Sign Language User
Deaf Professional
Proud Deaf Individual
ASL Communicator

FAQs

Q1: Is it okay to say “Deaf and Mute” instead?

A: No. Most Deaf people are not mute. They use sign language. Some speak as well. Ask what they prefer.

Q2: What if I see “Deaf and Dumb” on a form or event page?

A: Speak up! Kindly ask the organizer to update the language. Share this blog if needed.

Q3: Should I explain my Deafness in an interview?

A: No need to explain or apologize. Just state your access needs and show your qualifications.

Q4: Why is “hearing-impaired” controversial?

A: It focuses on what’s “missing.” Many prefer terms like Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or DeafBlind because they celebrate identity, not loss.

Change Begins With You

Language creates worlds. Let’s create a world where Deaf people are:

✅ Respected
✅ Hired
✅ Empowered
✅ Represented
✅ Celebrated

Deaf individuals are not dumb. They are bold, brilliant, and limitless.So let’s throw away the pity, the outdated labels, and the assumptions—and stand together for inclusion and truth.