Lost in Translation: The Challenge for Deaf Families Raising Trans Children

[Image description: graphic with a white background with a red border and black text that reads: “Access is a practice of love when it is done in service of care, solidarity and disability justice.” - @MiaMingus.]

Imagine the constant uphill battle faced by Deaf families with transchildren, who already face immense challenges in a society that often fails to consider their needs. Now add in the struggles of being Black or Brown, People of Color, or Disabled – the intersectionality only amplifies the barriers and discrimination they face.

The accessibility gap for Deaf transchildren and their families is a crisis that cannot be ignored. It is a matter of human rights and social justice. Every day, these families are denied equal access to crucial resources and information simply because they rely on Sign language as their primary mode of communication. The lack of accessibility not only hinders their ability to understand and support their child's gender journey, but it also perpetuates harmful stigmas and isolation.

This is unacceptable. Access is a fundamental right, not a privilege. It is essential for Deaf transchildren to have access to interpreters at events and workshops hosted by trans youth organizations, as well as healthcare providers who are knowledgeable and accommodating of their unique communication needs. We must demand better from these organizations and hold them accountable for their exclusionary practices.

Additionally, we must prioritize the training and inclusion of Sign language interpreters who specialize in LGBTQ+ vocabulary and terminology. This is crucial for fostering genuine understanding and engagement within discussions about gender identity.

Access is love. Let's come together to ensure that Deaf transchildren and their families are not left behind, feeling like they don't belong anywhere. Let's create a community where everyone is seen, heard, and valued for who they are – regardless of their abilities or identities. Only then can we truly claim to be an inclusive and accepting society.