The latest film CODA has sparked conversations about Deaf culture and relations in the Deaf and hearing communities–all things we support exploring here at Visually Speaking! 🙌
The film echoes that the Deaf community is not exclusively made up of Deaf members. Just like other communities, the Deaf community has a large population of people who are hearing allies, family, interpreters, and more. 🧏
Many times, acronyms like CODA (Child of Deaf Adult) KODA (Kid of Deaf Adult) or GODA (Grandchild of Deaf Adult ) are used to explain an individual’s relationship to the community. This unique relationship could mean their first language was ASL or another sign language–though not always.
What about SODA?
Nope, not like the drink 🥤.
This acronym stands for Sibling Of Deaf Adult. It doesn’t stop there, SpODA Spouse Of Deaf Adult or OHCODA Only Hearing Child of Deaf Adults. All of these acronyms share a similar understanding of connection to the Deaf community. Sign language might be their first or second language, but could also be a primary mode of communication. Many CODAs and SODAs go on to become interpreters or a part of the larger Deaf community.
Last but not least, there is also an acronym for people who have no familial Deaf relationships: NERDA (Not Even Related to Deaf Adult).
Whichever group you identify with, ASL is a culturally significant tool that will enhance your ability to communicate. Join us in class!
➡️ Check out our latest online ASL classes here.
Donations may be allocated to support Certified Deaf Interpreters, DeafBlind interpreters and support, ASL interpreters from marginalized communities, as well as fund requests for event access for Black Lives Matter (BLM) and various marginalized community events.