Photo: NYPD cops undergo sign language training to better communicate with deaf and hard-of-hearing communities in April 2024, per Police1.com

Why Do Police Officers and Agencies Need FREE ASL Lessons with The Deaf Penalty?

According to the State of New Mexico Commission for Deaf and Hard of Hearing, New Mexico has over a quarter MILLION people that are receiving Deaf or Hard of Hearing related services. As these numbers only count Deaf/HoH people who are receiving services, the actual number of Deaf/HoH people in New Mexico is likely higher. This means that approximately 10% of the population in New Mexico is Deaf/HoH. This is higher than the national average and our law enforcement officers must be prepared to communicate effectively with our Deaf/HoH community members.

There have been many instances of Deaf people being shot and killed by police officers directly due to communication issues. Often, officers mistake a Deaf person for ignoring direct orders when in reality, the Deaf person cannot hear the orders. No one deserves to die because they cannot hear.

At The Deaf Penalty we are committed to providing FREE ASL content and lessons to law enforcement officers and first responders in order to help bridge the communication gap between the hearing and Deaf worlds. Contact The Deaf Penalty and we will work together with your agency to provide basic ASL lessons that are geared towards law enforcement and first responders. Let’s work together to keep all members of our community safe!

Contact Dr. Aleksandra Treglown at DrTreglown@gmail.com