u/GabrielGreenWolf

I want to uncover the truth: why and how.

I went to FWA (Furry convention) this year and hosted my first panel where many furries learned ASL from me. My Deaf friend liked it because a few hearing furries used ASL to communicate.

A few months ago, my partner, me, and our hearing friends flew to CA. We texted often, but my partner mostly introduced me to his hearing friends. Only a few texted me briefly. It was a good step.

Then I took a challenge: NYC LGBT meeting with no Furry or Deaf connections. 100% hearing strangers. I used my phone to type and show what I said. They spoke to each other but not to me. I tried talking to one person and made two friends, but others made more because speaking gets attention.

Notes:

1. I'm not venting; I'm simply collecting information for my project. I'm doing it to make it more accessible and to help me connect with people with disabilities.
2. No need to be embarrassed. Normal chat is fine.
3. Offended? Move on and enjoy your friends. I guess.
4. I don't care how it is discrimination. I'm innocent with poor English.

Two questions:

First, who takes responsibility for communication? Deaf people (who have Deaf culture and don't speak) or hearing people?

Second, is the first spoken language more truthful than using ASL or a second (or additional) language?