Monequ Edwards. Picture Supplied.
As Miss Deaf South Africa 2023 and a finalist for Miss Deaf Universe South Africa 2024, I am proud to represent my community and advocate for a world where Deaf people are not just seen but truly understood and included.
My journey as a Deaf woman has taught me the importance of advocating for our culture and ensuring that the wider society understands that being Deaf is not just about hearing loss—it’s a unique way of experiencing the world. Growing up in a Deaf school, surrounded by the Deaf community and exposed to South African Sign Language (SASL), I have seen first-hand what we truly need—more Sign Language Interpreters, captions, and efforts to make all spaces accessible.
Monequ Edwards is a finalist of Miss Deaf Universe South Africa. Picture Supplied.
A recent milestone, such as Mia Le Roux becoming the first “deaf” woman to win Miss South Africa 2024, was a historic moment for the country. However, this also highlighted that Deafness is diverse—there are many ways to experience it. Some of us grew up being culturally Deaf (with a capital D), immersed in Deaf culture, using SASL as our primary mode of communication. Others identify as deaf (with a lowercase d), like Mia, and were raised in hearing worlds, relying on oral communication and lipreading, without the same cultural ties. Then, there are those who identify as hard of hearing, or experiencing having hearing loss, in some cases, hearing impaired, though many in the Deaf community find the latter term offensive.
This range of experiences does not lessen anyone’s identity, but it underscores the importance of recognising the various ways people identify within the Deaf community. Last month we celebrated Deaf Awareness Month - a crucial time to celebrate the rich culture, identity, and strength of the Deaf community. Deaf Awareness Month is not only about celebration—it’s also about breaking misconceptions. The South African public and government need to understand the full spectrum of our community’s needs. Many Deaf individuals feel excluded, particularly when basic communication tools are lacking in public services like hospitals, police stations, schools, stores, entertainment venues, and more.
This is why the Deaf community continues to advocate for widespread sign language education, so we can participate in society equally and confidently. There are tools and several organisations, that are paving the way for greater awareness and accessibility for Deaf individuals. Among the list is the WITS Centre for Deaf Studies, DeafSA and NID. Hearing individuals can approach these organisations to learn and engage with the Deaf community.
Some of these organisations offer Apps, services, and both online and in-person sign language classes. For example, Deaf individuals can connect with Sign Language Interpreters anywhere and anytime they need communication access, while others also provide Sign Language education, Deaf sensitisation programmes, and empowering for career development and information access to SASL.
While these resources are valuable, we need continued efforts from everyone to foster true inclusion. Research and education should be prioritised, ensuring that information comes directly from our Deaf community. This will prevent misunderstandings about our culture and language and help establish a more accurate understanding of Deaf culture and SASL.
Ultimately, respect and understanding go a long way. As we have closed the Deaf Awareness Month calendar, I invite everyone to continue to learn more about Deaf culture, appreciate the practice of SASL, and advocate for a more accessible world. Together, we can create an inclusive society where Deaf individuals are empowered to live without barriers.
