(Department of Communication Science, University of the Free State, 2005) Smith, Magteld
This opinion piece is from a "deaf' perspective. The writer's intention is not to list all
the prevailing misconceptions and misunderstandings about deafness, deaf people, and
sign language. Rather, it is to promote a line of thought and action that may lead people
to undertake meaningful and effective programmes for the "deaf'. The arguments
emanate from a combination of frustration and anger over the failure of hearing people
to recognise and make appropriate use of deaf people's strengths, personal
development, politics and, indeed, the exercise of choice.