Deaf/deaf

Using a “lowercase d” deaf describes an individual with the physical condition of hearing loss, or may refer to the whole spectrum of individuals with hearing loss. Someone referred to as deaf may not sign or experience sign language as their first or primary language. When generally referring to all deaf and hard of hearing people, the lower case is usually used. Using a capital “D” Deaf describes an individual who uses sign language as their primary language, celebrates Deaf culture, history, community, language and personal identity. The capitalization of “Deaf” can also be used to describe the signing community and culture as a whole.