Speaking of prejudice and discrimination deaf people face, she added: “There are lots of barriers for deaf people because this world is built for hearing people. I was often rejected by taxi drivers when trying to take a taxi.”
Although Goh pointed out that modern technology such as ride-hailing apps and livestreaming technology have helped to break some barriers, she feels that as a society, we still have a long way to go towards inclusivity.
“I also hope that one day, Singapore recognises SgSL as an official language and people will be more aware and respectful of our language so that communication barriers will be reduced,” she said.
“Deafness is more than just hearing loss. To me, it is not a disability. It means many things: Identity, culture, pride and community.
“For example, so many people use the term ‘hearing impaired’ to refer to us. This is considered very offensive to people who are deaf or hard of hearing as it can be taken to mean that people who have difficulty hearing are deficient in some way. We are not here to be fixed by hearing people,” she explained.
Speaking of her livestream work, she added: “I hope that with increased media representation, more deaf and disabled people will be included and seen, both in front of the camera and behind the camera, working in the crew as scriptwriters and producers. Having authentic representation will go a long way towards reducing misconceptions and myths.”
