Reimagining Law Enforcement Communication with the Black Deaf Community

Author

Jeanelle Francis

Date of Award

5-16-2025

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Erin Farley

Second Advisor

Joseph Hill

Abstract

Law enforcement’s relationship with the Deaf community, particularly the African American/Black Deaf population, has historically been tense, leading to wrongful arrests, police brutality, and even fatalities. This capstone project examines the barriers to effective interaction between law enforcement and the Deaf community, specifically in first-encounter situations, highlighting the Black Deaf experience. Past research has addressed the language barriers that Deaf individuals face in situations such as traffic stops and legal proceedings. However, it rarely examines the specific experiences of Deaf Black/African American families impacted by police-induced trauma caused by an unfair power dynamic. This project is an exploratory study to identify common issues in communication barriers, including biased behaviors by law enforcement, and how the use of technology may prove helpful and serve as a resource where there is a lack of clear communication by highlighting the Black/African American experiences. The study is valuable as it provides a modern perspective on prior inquiries while offering ideas for helpful tools that prove beneficial when used in other parts of the U.S. By implementing effective solutions, law enforcement agencies can improve their understanding and accountability for the needs of the Deaf community. It is hoped that these findings will prompt institutions, policymakers, and first responders to uphold their obligations to protect and serve all people, contributing to a more equitable society.

Recommended Citation

Francis, Jeanelle, "Reimagining Law Enforcement Communication with the Black Deaf Community" (2025). Undergraduate University Honors Capstones. 125.
https://ida.gallaudet.edu/honors_capstones/125