I'd love some feedback, experiences while shopping

[interestedfrien]

Hi,

I am involved with an organization that raises money and provides grants to Deaf and hard of hearing people in my area. I have been asked to prepare a speech for my organization making recommendations for our local chamber of commerce. I was wondering if anyone had any stories to share, or recommendations to make to make going shopping, or just communication with employees of businesses better. Or, what could people, in general, do to be better friends of the Deaf community?

Many thanks,
an Interested Friend

 

[pek1]

Being hoh and having a hearing dog, you would need a long time to listen to what I've experienced, the vast majority is in ignorance of hearing people. You would not believe the gestures and questions I receive about my hearing dog. I thought it was considered bad manners to point a finger at someone, but that etiquette has long since been thrown out the window. I get chased around stores and other businesses, whether or not my dog is "caped." The questions, I wouldn't ask a hearing person some of them because they are past the lines of rudeness! People grope my dog, totally ignoring the "Do Not Pet" sign on her. Some even expect me to "educate" them about hearing dogs (do I look like a freak show, an educator or a circus?)

Education is key, but, seriously, asking someone like me, on the spot, regarding it, is NOT the way to get it (I charge for my time). There are organizations that would be more than willing to help you, as they are funded, for the most part, by tax payer dollars. You are right about coming here, as many can tell you more horror stories than I could ever imagine. The stories range from a deaf person being shot and sometimes killed by the police to . . . the sky is the limit. It is, for the most part, unbelieveable.