What term is considered highly offensive for the deaf and hard of hearing community?

The term that is considered highly offensive for the deaf and hard of hearing community is "deaf-mute." This outdated term implies that individuals who are deaf cannot communicate verbally at all, which is not accurate. Many in the deaf community use sign language as their primary form of communication, and the notion of being "mute" reinforces negative stereotypes and misconceptions about their abilities.

Choosing terms that respect individuals' identities and experiences is crucial in creating an inclusive environment. While other terms may reflect various aspects of hearing loss, "deaf-mute" is particularly harmful as it denies the rich and varied communication methods that each person within the community might utilize. By recognizing this, we emphasize the importance of using respectful and appropriate language when referring to individuals in the deaf and hard of hearing communities.