There are many amazing parts of being Deaf, parts of life both big and small that are actually better for Deaf people than for hearing people.
In this episode of Our Deaf Ways, meet Drisana Levitzke-Gray and Matthew Norman, two Deaf Aussie expats living in different continents.
Drisana lives in Canada and Matthew lives in Sweden and they’ve found that through a mix of Auslan and other sign languages from across the world, they can still communicate easily with the Deaf community in their adopted countries. While there are multiple distinct sign languages across the world, the fact that these languages are visual means it’s much easier for Deaf strangers to communicate, than it is for hearing strangers.
“My husband … is a South African and we don’t share a common signed language,” Drisana says. “So whilst I can converse in South African sign language I am by no means fluent.”
“We use a mix of South African sign language, Auslan and International Sign thrown in.”
Our Deaf Ways is a series by SBS and Deaf Australia about everyday life as a Deaf person. Over this six-part visual podcast series, Deaf people from all walks of life will share stories and perspectives onDeaf Ways.
The video podcast is created for Deaf, DeafBlind and hard of hearing people who use Auslan, but we also invite hearing people to watch and listen. The series doesn’t explain ‘Deaf things’ to hearing people, or communicate ‘hearing things’ to Deaf people, but seeks to share pride in Our Deaf Ways and celebrate Deaf culture and language.
Hosted by Shirley Liu, with Drisana Levitzke-Gray and Matthew Norman.
Produced and Directed by Paula Thornton.
Edited by June Stathis.
Deaf Australia and SBS acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. We extend that respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who are watching with us.
Deaf Australia and SBS celebrate Auslan and recognise all Deaf leaders in Australia who have advocated for Deaf, DeafBlind and hard of hearing communities. Deaf Australia is proud of everyone’s contribution, whether big or small, in preserving our language, community and culture.
#Auslan #DeafHistory #AustralianSignLanguage #SignLanguages #DeafAustralia #AuslanDay#Deafworld #SBSOnDemand
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