7: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students and Professionals: Infusing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Frameworks

This chapter highlights the use of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) frameworks as they relate to Deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) learners and professionals within both general and special education systems, including workplace environments. While it argues that the implementation of effective DEI frameworks is essential to enabling DHH individuals to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to educational and professional settings, it explores challenges faced by DHH learners and professionals that often stem from the absence of coherent DEI frameworks, policies, practices, and support structures. Embedded in these explorations are strategies for developing and implementing meaningful DEI initiatives that could ensure that DHH individuals have equitable access to services and resources necessary for success in both education and career pathways.