Sometimes I hear people questioning how important media representation is for groups that face oppression: women, people of colour, people with disabilities etc. They trivialise it as political correctness gone mad or some such thing. I think this story Im sharing from my fantastic friend Rikki, who has truly come into her own since finding her niche as an advocate for the experiences and rights of d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing (HoH) people, will offer a perspective well worth considering. You may have heard of her, as she has been ALL over the press recently! But the true testament to her shining potential and triumph over adversity comes from another source: a little deaf girl aged about 4 spotted in the airport by a friend, watching one of her videos. The girl was smiling, laughing and signing I love you to the screen. Imagine how important it is for that child to see someone just like her succeeding and gaining recognition, and then try claiming that representation isnt important. Well done, Rikki - I am so proud of everything youve accomplished this past few months, and know 2015 will be another great year for you.
Posted on: Sun, 21 Dec 2014 22:11:25 +0000