THREAD: How to adapt to deaf people whilst wearing face masks

1/ we know face masks are an essential. DONT TAKE THEM OFF. I’ve seen many deaf people suggesting to take them off, no. That’s not the way.

2/ USE YOUR PHONE: use the notes app, or text messages to type back and forth with the deaf person.

3/ USE PEN AND PAPER: write simple sentences - don’t write too long and too much information, keep it simple.

4/ USE GESTURES: this can be useful especially when working in a shop where a deaf person may be looking for something - gesture to the place or SHOW them.

5/ LEARN SIGN LANGUAGE: even tho the facial expressions won’t be visible, learning to finger spell and basic signs can be helpful in many situations

6/ BE PATIENT: take time and understand that even though you have adapted with the face mask, reading English, watching your gestures and signs may take more than one go to understand.

7/ STAY CALM: don’t panic or rush when you are trying to communicate. Deaf people are anxious too in this time, not just you.

8/ Deaf people, this one is for you. Be careful with the way you are campaigning against the use of face masks, it can be seen as being discriminating towards Muslim women who wear a niqaab. It is important to remain respectful and adapt to EACH OTHER.