What is Deaf culture? What is a Deaf community?
In 1988 Carol Padden defined culture as, a set of learned behaviors of a group of people who have their own language, values, rules of behavior, and traditions. Just like many other cultures, this definition is also true for the deaf culture. Oftentimes people are quick to categorize the deaf culture as disabled when in reality there is some much more to this culture. One thing that is highly valued in the Deaf Culture is the mastery of American Sign Language (ASL). It is through ASL literature that wisdom, values, and pride are passed on from generation to generation, often reinforcing the bond between younger and older generations. Along with this goes skillful storytelling, which is also valued. It is through storytelling that the history and traditions of the Deaf Culture come alive and are passed on. Another aspect of this culture is marriage. About nine out of ten members of the Deaf culture marry another individual from their cultural group. Many of these deaf couples also hope
