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Evolving Approach

While DDW initially focused on cultural exchange opportunities for Deaf students, during World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) Congress in South Africa, they met a Deaf Kenyan who inspired on shifting towards sustainable organizational development.

© 2026 Deaf Worlds, Inc. A US 501 (c)(3) public charity, EIN 30-0577052

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About
What We Do
- WHERE WE FOCUS
- OUR WORK
Resources
Get Involved
DONATE

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facebook
linkedin
youtube
instagram
email

DETAIL

‘True liberation’ for signing Deaf communities means having full access to resources, opportunities, and environments where they can thrive without barriers. It’s about empowerment, equality, and being fully included in society.

DETAIL

Stakeholders are the people and groups who support and are involved with us, including local and international nonprofits, business partners, government agencies, community members, supporters, donors, and volunteers.

DETAIL

The crises that have impacted signing Deaf communities are often related to communication, accessibility, and social inclusion. Here are some types of challenging crises:

1. Health Crises:

Deaf people struggle to get health information in sign language and have limited access to health literacy, especially during medical emergencies.
There aren’t enough sign language interpreters in hospitals.

2. Economic Crises:

Deaf people face higher unemployment and financial difficulties.
Access to social services and financial aid can be limited.
Funding for Deaf organizations and education may decrease as they are not considered top priorities, unlike disability organizations that aim to “hit many birds with one stone.”

3. Human Rights Violations:

Deaf people are often excluded from decision-making and aid during global crises.
They face discrimination and lack legal protection.
Deaf individuals are at higher risk of violence and exploitation.

4. Technological Disruptions:

The digital divide makes it harder for Deaf people to access important information.
New technologies often lack sign language support and closed captioning.
Remote learning and work can be difficult due to limited internet access.

DETAIL

The global crises that have impacted DDW in the 2020s are listed below:

COVID-19 pandemic
Economic recession
Social unrest and protests
Education and technological crises

SOURCES

Palmer, J. L. et. al, 2019.
National Deaf Center, 2021.
World Health Organization (WHO) Global report, 2022.

SOURCES

Journal of Deaf Studies and Deaf Education, 2016.
Journal of Deaf Studies and Deaf Education, 2016.
National Deaf Center, 2021.
World Federation of the Deaf, 2021.

SOURCES

World Federation of the Deaf (WFD), 2022
Deaf Child Worldwide, 2019.
National Deaf Children’s Society, 2022.
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), 2021

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