Sign language is language that uses visual hand patterns to convey a meaning without using any vocal. It truly is a superb way of communication, although it was not always accepted in society. Wherever communities of deaf people exist, sign language develops. There was no stopping the advancement and the thriving of the deaf culture. This movie shows the reality within the deaf community that both deaf and hearing people go through when trying to provide sufficient opportunities for their children allowing them to enroll in deaf schools either manual or oral.
I really enjoyed watching the movie, “Through Deaf Eyes”. It was inspiring to really watch the way that deaf people were communicating. The way that they signed was like an art form in itself. Their facial expressions were so theatrical and full of detail.
One thing that surprised me was how hard it was to lip read. Some of the people interviewed in the movie would sign without lips moving, some would sign with lips moving, and some would sign and speak. I can see that skill of lip-reading taking much practice. I was appalled to learn that some deaf individuals were graded on their speech. Many deaf individuals who were taught the oral method thought that it was very difficult to learn and it took away time from other things that could have been taught. I always wondered to myself when people are deaf, does that mean that they cannot speak or use their voice. One highly educated woman in the movie signed that she prefers not to... [continues]