Eleven Things You Should Know About Deaf People

When I attended the Summer Slam Poetry Camp at Gustavus Adolphus College last year, I walked into a group of 30 campers knowing absolutely nobody. After that first day, I was so overwhelmed by all the conversations going on around me that I couldn't understand, and frustrated with myself for not knowing how to effectively communicate the fact that I'm deaf. I would tell people, but they didn't really seem to get it. So, the next day, Sierra DeMulder (camp counselor and two-time National Poetry Slam champion) instructed us to write a "Ten Things" poem, and I saw that as the perfect opportunity to express my thoughts to the rest of the campers. It was an absolute rush to perform this, and everyone at the camp was so, so lovely.
Biggest thank you to Sierra DeMulder, Cuban Hernandez, Adam Henze, and Neil Hilborn, the greatest counselors, mentors, and friends I could ask for.
And thank you so much to Lauren Keely Holtz for filming this for me!

[@rachelptv2020]

"NO. I'm deaf, proud and loud!" YASSSS SLAY QUEEN

[@Ceh522]

THE WHISKERS OMG

[@kirtigrover1982]

+Kawaii Cow The whiskers come from within my friend

[@twoshillings7292]

+RachelPTV The whiskers. They come. From. WITHIN!

[@OllieLPSmovies]

+Shan Burrick HELLO HELLO SUP PHAM

[@deafmuteandproud]

Lovvvvvvve this video . I wanted learn hearing languages so I can tell hearing peoples this too

[@mathru96]

It's weird how I am a hearing person yet I don't feel targeted when she talks about hearing douchebags. Oh wait... Maybe it's because I'm not one and all the people who are complaining about this in the comments are... Yep makes sense.

[@salty-spitoon]

+Maria Nirvana she's speaking her mind. I get what you are saying but I also understand why she is speaking the way she is. Those who aren't deaf/don't work with the deaf will only ever interact with the deaf once or twice in their life. The deaf have to deal with these things every day. She's seems to just be blowing off some steam, but what you're saying is right. People don't know how to interact with the deaf, so the way they respond to her she be counteracted with education about how to communicate with her rather than sass. But like I said, she deals with this every day.

[@deb85ish]

+An alias I disagree. This is how I reacted to this video. "oh her video on a day in the life of being a deaf person was really interesting. I want to learn more about deaf people and how to communicate better etc.." *watch video. stops half way through* video essential goes "wow. you're really fucking stupid and ignorant if you don't already know all these things about deaf people". Me: "oh. I thought you were going to teach me, but instead you are telling me how stupid and ignorant I am. ok. screw you. I don't care what you have to say anymore."

[@conanlover4ever]

+Deborah Barnum This is slam poetry. What did you expect? Of course, any slam poet could step back and convey their message half-heartedly and politely, but that's not the point. Slam poetry is created when you've been pushed to the edge by an issue and you just want to express your feelings with powerful words. You don't know Ren, and she doesn't know you. And this isn't about you, it's about her feelings. You don't know what she's gone through. And from what I've seen of her in her other videos and Spring Awakening videos, she is a very kind person. But people don't go to slam poetry events to listen to people being polite.

[@deb85ish]

+Regina Glacie No. It isn't about her feelings. If it was just about her feelings, she would write it and put it in a drawer. It is about connecting with the audience and sharing an idea. Bottom line: if you insult your audience then they don't care what you have to say.

[@conanlover4ever]

+Deborah Barnum Okay, so all this time, Deaf people have been deprived of a real voice in society, and you want her to put her thoughts in a drawer? People who enjoy slam poetry understand the meaning of this poem. If you are someone who is really interested in learning about Deaf culture, then please don't take offense from this. This is about people that Ren interacts with who are just careless and oblivious to the Deaf community and her deafness.

[@kenwaylights]

Ahhh! I'm deaf as well and my voice sounds the same as yours does (no "deaf accent") and everybody gives me crap for needing captions, for needing repeats, for needing the highest volume setting, for not "sounding"/"looking" deaf, for sometimes hearing some things and then not hearing others, the list goes on endlessly. They come to me for only the offensive signs because they don't care about the culture, they just want to know how to insult and hurt others. It's ridiculous. DEAF, LOUD AND PROUD!!

[@gopuffleman]

You're... deaf?

[@kenwaylights]

Mark Benzinger I'm tempted to reply with "Did I stutter?" However, yes, I am deaf. A late-deafened adult, to be precise, meaning I lost most of my hearing later in life. I can't hear about 60% of things on any given day and that percentage may fluctuate a bit sometimes. Also, Ren's videos have closed captioning. (Thanks, Ren!!) So even though my speech comprehension is crap, I can still understand her thanks to subtitles. So yeah, I'm deaf.

[@Anakaraya]

+IMVU Hacks You realize deaf encompasses a range right? Some people who are deaf cant hear at all some can hear a bit etc. Not everyone who is deaf cant hear at all i mean did you not notice the poet in the video had hearing aids?

[@Anakaraya]

IMVU Hacks "Hearing loss, also known as hearing impairment, or anacusis, is a partial or total inability to hear. An affected person may be described as hard of hearing." ""A deaf person has little to no hearing"" "Slight: between 16 and 25 dB HL Mild: for adults: between 26 and 40 dB HL for children: between 20 and 40 dB HL[8] Moderate: between 41 and 54 dB HL[8] Moderately severe: between 55 and 70 dB HL[8] Severe: between 71 and 90 dB HL[8] Profound: 91 dB HL or greater[8] Totally deaf: Have no hearing at all. This is called anacusis." um ???

[@boiifudont2997]

+kenwaylights so your happy to be deaf?

[@jbaby283]

omg I just realised one thing: Deaf people will always win in whisper challenge 😂 you rock!

[@BiscanarzaAfraid]

No

[@bradthefox3155]

no mute people will win because they cant talk at all

[@audreygagnon6044]

Um no deaf means you cant hear not u always whisper

[@jbaby283]

you guys definitely dont know what whisper challenge is 😏

[@vademarofxeroes8416]

Def people usually shout because they can't always hear the tone of their voice. I have a deaf and blind uncle who has that problem

[@2b-coeur]

I think some people say "I'm so sorry" because they don't know what else to say..

[@xFictionAficionadax]

+Erulasse Aranel Agreed. Or they just don't know how to change topics. When people ask me about my insulin pump and I say "it's my diabetes lifesaver!" they are usually silent or say "oh, glad that's there then, must suck to have diabetes" haha. Sometimes I don't know what to say if someone tells me about their disability but I know it's ok to ask some questions (if they're comfortable answering)....I never do the "I'm sorry thing" though.

[@evaaa6240]

Dee-Nice my best friend had diabetes and an insulin pump. The first time I met her I was like, "Waz that" and she said, "My insulin pump. It pumps my insulin so I stay alive!" And, my grandma has diabetes so I understood what it does and basically everything she does. We became best friends right after. Whenever I'm with her many people ask her about her insulin pump and say, "I'm so sorry you have diabetes!" And we just stare at each other almost laughing

[@xFictionAficionadax]

Coo Coo Da Comedian Sounds like you are a sweet friend! Yeah, I don't mind people asking me about it too much, it's when they have to say they are so sorry. I mean, I don't get mad, diabetes sucks and it isn't just a disability--it's a disease (note: disability /=/ lesser health, but a disease does affect overall body health of course)--so everyone with diabetes I'm pretty sure wants a cure. It's nice to know others in the community with diabetes and have a special bond but it is hard. It's just an awkward statement. Like if I'm complaining about diabetic shit, sure, but when someone has just met me....it's for sure weird lol. Does your grandma have type 1 or type 2? Those are pretty different but you probably know an equal amount of info about both now!

[@333933215]

I think, I'm one of the "I'm sorry"-people. But not "I'm sorry you're deaf" more a "I'm sorry I made your life hard, is there anything I can do to make it easier". like with someone who is deaf or hoh not to mumble (which I do, A LOT).

[@vademarofxeroes8416]

People never say it be malicious. You get a few idiots who do but mostly it's because you feel bad that they have to suffer and there seems to be nought else to say (unless you can build up a mutual conversation)

[@troeira1563]

wow she talks better than me and she is deaf

[@ShatteredRoom]

SLAY GIRL SLAY

[@lillyturner2562]

skeleguns 10,ooo,ooo why should they

[@ariahb7777]

I got chills oh my goshhhhh

[@graceelizabeth5918]

Same!!! It made me feel so empowered!

[@dirkeldritch4880]

Uggghhhhh you look so good in this video. your outfit is so cute. it slays me.

[@Lolman-kh8yz]

+Tanner Esty eh they aight

[@pallas144]

+Jordan George wow rude ass

[@pallas144]

+Jordan George who fucking asked you

[@kittydollsxo189]

Charlee Johnson look tight tho

[@dirkeldritch4880]

I Eat the bootie k

[@DuluthDawn]

Ren, thank you for speaking your mind. Everyday I see how the invisibility of deafness causes strain for Deaf and hard of hearing students. It is exhausting to constantly remind others that communication requires a FEW alterations from the hearing mainstream's way of communicating. I applaud your tenacity! Keep bringing YOU to the forefront; you've got a great message! When people are insulted by your truth, it's a sign THEY need to check their prejudices.

[@Renlikethewind]

+DuluthDawn Thank you so much; I really appreciate this!

[@getoffmychannel7593]

+Ren Hey, I thought of this. if your blind You don't see Murder or the horrible things in this world. And If your deaf, You can't hear the drama.

[@hadleytalty6112]

Ren, this is absolutely amazing. My uncle is deaf, and whenever he's over and my friends come over, they never understand how he can do things that any other person can do. They talk to him as if he is a child and they believe that he can't comprehend basic concepts. The way you preformed this poem using spoken word poetry really targets this generation, and speaks to them in a language they will understand and connect to. I will be sure to share this with them in hopes of helping them understand not only my uncle, but the entire deaf community as well.

[@avafradkin8952]

This is Fantastic. Thank you for creating and performing this.

[@rebeccatalavera8109]

I love your confidence! You are so pretty! That outfit slays! YAASSS!😂I love you!

[@knightetcc3054]

Yassssssss

[@GenesisGonzalez]

I feel sort of sad hearing her say a lot of things I maybe would've done or asked if I met someone deaf (I have yet to meet a deaf person). I'm trying to learn ASL because you never know when you would need to use it or to connect to way more people. But anyways, I didn't know almost all she said.

[@Renlikethewind]

+Genesis Gonzalez That's why I said them--so people can become more aware. Most of the questions/comments I provide as examples in this poem really do come from an innocent place in people with no malicious intentions, but experiencing them over and over again does become frustrating for d/Deaf/HOH people. That frustration over a lack of awareness became the basis for this poem, but the intent isn't to make people feel sad or bad about not knowing. My intention was simply to educate and my expression of my experiences in this poem is the best way I knew how to do that. On that note, I'm unbelievably thrilled to hear that you're trying to learn ASL, especially for the purpose of connecting to others! The world needs more people like that. :)

[@GenesisGonzalez]

+Ren Thank you! We all need to love each other and have knowledge of every type of person that's around you. You did make me learn things about deaf people I never would've thought, but firstly, I never knew you could be able to speak while not hearing yourself. But you are beautiful and inspiring, continue being yourself and don't let anyone tell you you can't do something. Thank you for replying :)

[@LadyRebelle16]

+Ren I'm just curious, I don't want to sound rude, but are you completely deaf or HoH?

[@johnlang555]

+Jephrsyn Gee whar is hoh

[@LadyRebelle16]

+Maximilian Ortiz hard of hearing

[@19Dianne94]

ok yes. not all hearing people are like this..... But, as an interpreter, I spend the majority of my day hearing the same things. "Oh he can read my lips. He understands." "She speaks so well and reads lips great, we don't need you" "Did you have to bring him?" "uhh. no he came after I did." "Oh that can't be legal! He's Deaf!" "She's Deaf, she wouldn't get into trouble. There's no way she cussed him out!" Now, I know it's not my world. I just straddle the line between hearing and deaf, but I wish the hearing world understood so much more. I think I'd prefer being in the Deaf world.

[@rolanddawson3657]

Or at least a world where it didn't require someone losing one of the 5 senses to keep their humanity...

[@harveyabel1354]

And of course, you're sometimes hired to "Interrupt" and are sometimes called a "Deaf Interpreter"....amiright?!

[@SpongebobSQpants]

Hey Ren! Your videos are great and I'm very pleased with how they all have Closed Captioning in them. However, I would like to spread your videos to a larger audience by translating the subtitles to Hebrew so my mates from Israel could enjoy your videos too, and many other people who speak Hebrew who I don't know. Would you be able to enable submissions for subtitles to your videos so I could add some (which you'd later have to approve)? That would be ace, thank you very much. :)

[@Renlikethewind]

Thank you so much for bringing this to my attention! I've enabled community contributions for CC and will do the same on the rest of my videos! Thanks again :)

[@SpongebobSQpants]

Ren Thank *you*! :D

[@positivity-prevails4209]

+Ren this was amazing I am physically disabled and I completely get when people say I'm so sorry it's so annoying this was great

[@SpongebobSQpants]

Hey again Ren. I added completed subtitles to two of your videos, but you haven't yet confirmed them. I just want to make sure you noticed I submitted them and hope you will review and publish them as soon as possible. Hope I'm not rushing on you, I'm sure you are very busy with other things. Have a great day. :)

[@gabbysevers1658]

How do you make where people can submit substitles?

[@jennylynne4414]

I'm hard of hearing, I have to wear hearing aids. You have said so well what I have tried to say. Thank you!

[@da1earedbandit44]

i have implants as well but i don't were them cause it helps me embrace my Deafness

[@naomibashan3816]

I️ have implants too!

[@azelmamortlake4471]

Oh god, same! Especially the over enunciating part.

[@littlemen9917]

I also wear hearing aids because I’m hard of hearing too

[@Rayvn7]

...And so did a bunch of other people who AREN'T complete assholes.

[@myspilledtea]

I think the driving question stems from more the concern when a deaf person can't hear a siren of an ambulance or car.

[@Renlikethewind]

+insertacoolnamehere That's why there are lights!

[@myspilledtea]

Ren Lol. I know. I was just saying for those who just assume that disabilities mean that people can't do things that other people can't do.

[@julianmeekings8364]

+insertacoolnamehere Given the volume people play their music at in cars, that's kind of moot... I would also argue that as deaf people rarely hold conversations while driving, nor use the phone while driving, on average they're probably safer and more focused on what is going on on the road :)

[@myspilledtea]

+Julian Meekings You've got a good point there. I still remember my neighbor's ex boyfriend driving through the neighborhood and knowing it was him at like 1am. 😐 Still salty over that.

[@anniefaucher8143]

You can see them when your driving, its not that big of a deal and when you have never been able to rely on hearing something, or can't anymore you learn to adapt

[@pumpkinss02]

My favourite part: "I didn't need to say that out loud for you to understand me" You go girl!!!!!!! xxxxx

[@graceelizabeth5918]

I am not deaf or hard of hearing but your speech inspired me to be who you are and not to fight it! I love your personality, your wit, and your humor! Please make more videos!🙏🏻😀

[@sweetandsassysouthernangel4050]

You go girl! Props to you. Loving this poem so much.

[@sarahelizabeth7714]

Hell yea! You get it gurl! Sure not all hearing people are like that. But when you're faced with a never ending stream of stupidity and pity and dismissal, sometimes you need to let it out and make people aware.

[@da1earedbandit44]

Sarah Elizabeth knows what shes talking

[@teaganray8203]

omg so true im deaf and i can talk tooo u r awsome keep going with your videos luv u!!!

[@dorienkinsman4344]

Will you help me with a sign name? Reply if you will. No that's not the only reason I'm on this but I would love to have new friends

[@johndeaux682]

A sign name? If you mean how to sign a name, you would generally spell it out, but some exceptions are made for famous people, when a name is used repeatedly in a conversation, or if you just tell people your sign name so they don't have to spell it out. if you mean something else, just clarify and I can probably help you

[@tank123103]

John Deux I know the alphabet in sighn language and maybe 12 words I want to learn more I want to have friends who are deaf so if someone can speak and dosent realize I can talk and they say something in a bully term I can return the favor and mouth off to them I would like deaf friends as of this point I have no friends I'm home schooled but when I go into 8th grade I'm prepared to be bullied I have stress and anxiety problems and maybe ill find some good friends who will understand I'm surprising my self tight now because I'm not shy in words but shy in speech maybe if I learn sighn it can help me be more open and less shy maybe well if your still reading this thanks for reading a 12 year olds comment and I hope whomever reads thus that you will have a blessed day or if you don't believe in God don't get mad I'm just wishing you guys a blessed or wonderful day. ✋

[@johndeaux682]

Jacob Hatley Hello Jacob. It's very cool that you're taking an interest in sign language at such a young age! While I'm sure you want to learn more, something that always made me feel good was that when I would talk to an adult friend who was teaching me sign language, they always said that even if I gave up and never learned anything else, was that as long as I knew the alphabet I could speak with a deaf or HoH person. I admire your reasons for learning. I learned because I have a variety of mental issues and was nonverbal for a while. While deaf people aren't made fun of as much as one might think, it definitely happens, and it's very admirable of you to want to take a stand against it in such a direct and effective manner. I'm very sorry to hear that you don't have friends. If it's not too weird, I'll gladly be your friend! While it is definitely hard to go into a public school when you've been homeschooled and have anxiety, I guarantee you bullying doesn't happen like you might think, at least from my experience. It doesn't happen a lot, and when it does, it's usually subtle (not to say it doesn't hurt). And I don't mean to say this as a popular teen who was with a rich family who didn't really worry about bullying who doesn't understand, this is from the point of view of a person who was in middle school during the worst point of my life, where my family was dying and I didn't have a lot of food and I didn't have clothes that fit and I was too depressed to ever focus on work. Kids had every reason to pick on me, and while it did happen, it didn't happen nearly as often or as bad as people make it seem like it does. I think that just like you said, you'll make great friends when you get to the eighth grade. Middle school is a tough time, especially for a previously homeschooled kid (trust me, I know. I'm homeschooled right now), but I know you'll make it. You seem like a very smart and kind person, especially for a 12 year old. I hope you have a blessed day too Jacob. Thank you for reading a 15 year old's reply.

[@tank123103]

John Deux well I like that you replied and I admired your comment I'm sorry people picked on you I to was picked on all through my life in elementary school I had friends but once we went to middle school they turned into populars while I stayed a geek but I'm proud to be intelligent vs being a total jerk I'm scared to go to 8th grade but I'm proud some people understand and if I knew you in real life I would be happy to have a friend like you.

[@darkshadowrain2118]

Hey Ren, The first video I saw of yours was, "A day through the life of a deaf person" and that drew me, because so many people, including myself go about their day-to-day cycle not thinking of what it would be like if they lost their hearing. Then I viewed your, "11 things you need to know about deaf people" and I'm guilty of a few of those things without intent. I'm new to your channel, and look forward to learning more from you about how you overcome your differences and are accepting of yourself, rather than being angry that you aren't able to hear perfectly. It's inspiring.

[@celestial_bean]

I love her attitude and her shorts

[@879aaa]

Wow!!! You are amazing! And perfectly said learning sign language immediately

[@felicitythebabybat2143]

Her confidence always makes me so happy and proud of her. I haven't watched this video in a long time, but it's still one of my favorites. She is amazing💞💖🌈

[@DISTRACTIONNN97GAMIN]

That was amazing. This deserves so much more attention than what it got. amazing performance

[@rhiannonmorgan1815]

girl u just light up my world I am deaf and so is my younger brother we both have hearing aids but we still struggle through life but ur challenge really inspires me to stick up for who I am and for who I can be p.s sorry for the long comment I hope u either reply or read it

[@juliabennison5309]

Needs captions on this video.

[@kimberlyjennery]

Wow that was so powerful and awesome!!! So much packed into three and a half minutes! Out of curiosity, not that it'd be the same poem at all, or have the same meaning, do you have/do an ASL version of this already translated? This is certainly a poem for a hearing audience, so there may be no point, but I was just wondering. Awesome stuff!

[@celestesanfelippo952]

+kimberlyjennery it has closed captions for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. and she spoke on purpose because she wanted to show that even though she is deaf that doesnt mean she can't communicate well.

[@kimberlyjennery]

+celeste sanfelippo oh, I totally understood that aspect. I was just wondering if she'd done both, because of the nature of ASL, and because I know she knows ASL as well, if she'd created her own ASL version of it, as well. :)

[@celestesanfelippo952]

+kimberlyjennery No she doesnt have one because this was at a all hearing camp maybe if it was at a deaf camp or at a mixed camp of both deaf and hearing maybe she would have signed and voiced it but otherwise i dont think she would make one.

[@kimberlyjennery]

+celeste sanfelippo Totally makes sense. She's done ASL interpretations of songs before, other people's work, and does really gorgeous interpretations. I was just wondering since this was so beautiful and powerful, if she'd chosen to go back, after, and do her own choice of ASL interpretation for her original work. It's certainly not needed, just wondering if she'd done it since it is well within her skill set, and something that might have been of interest to her. :)

[@celestesanfelippo952]

i looked on her page and i didnt seen anything like that. but yeah asl is just a beautiful language and (just a little thing about me) i am currently learning (i am in my second year)it so that i can communicate with deaf/hard of hearing people.

[@JoshuaYukiah]

Girl, I was snapping along with the rest of the audience! This was so powerful to watch and your pride is so beyond inspirational.

[@talkswithtaylor5345]

This make me feel really bad. I understand that hearing people do ignorant things like all the ones she listed but not all of us are like this. Most of us just don't relate so we don't understand certain situations. And yeah there are those jerks who are stupid and rude. I know they happen all the time but I feel there is nothing I can do about it. now I feel afraid to approach a deaf person for fear of offending them when I didn't before. 😢

[@melindahess7426]

Naturallychic3 Agree. I was okay with this till a bit late in the presentation. I know people can be ignorant and cruel, intentional or not. But to paint hearing people with a broad stroke is as bad as those who paint deaf people with a broad stroke. Fortunately I know quite a few deaf people and am making efforts to meet others by attending ASL and deaf social events. I thoroughly respect their culture and community. When I do meet those who are rude because I am NOT deaf, I move on, the same as I do with hearing people. Don't worry about approaching a deaf person, most know we are trying and are very patient. Bottom line I have found: Give respect, get respect. Great message but could have been delivered better...

[@lindseydavies8979]

+Naturallychic3 #NotAllHearingPeople. Eyeroll.

[@lemarseillais514]

Fall in luv with her... She's flawless!

[@charliehammond4849]

Wow this is such a good poem! I sort of understand what you mean about people forgetting, because I'm not deaf but I have autism, and I have the ability to act like I don't have autism. It's more of a habit that I can't shake because I've been doing it for so long without realising, but now I've realised it's very exhausting and I don't want to anymore, but because people forget that I have autism it's almost as if I can't ever be my normal autistic self.

[@charliehammond4849]

My normal autistic self means being a lot more childish on the outside. I can act my age (17) at places like college, but at home I'm a lot more childlike. Meltdowns are like a toddler tantrum, my voice even changes to sound monotone and like a child's whereas in public although it still may be slightly monotone it just sounds a bit more grown up and articulate, I get confused and don't understand a lot of things, can't really concentrate if a lot of things are happening. All of these things I can control to some degree but it's takes a lot of effort which is exhausting.

[@Muikkinen]

Charlie Hammond Very interesting! Thanks for answering! :)

[@emilybatty1462]

You are speaking for those who aren't always confident to, you are an inspiration for not just the deaf but for everyone. I don't know you, but I can see the courage in you. Well done !

[@AlanAsound]

Thank you! So inspiring! I am not deaf but I'm learning BSL and I am so proud of you right now! PS your speech is spotless!

[@redhedgehogx4076]

Thank you for all the videos your making! I am actually doing an oral presentation based on everything you say :)

[@adriannavale5636]

Preach it girl!!! High five!

[@zulmaguasch6137]

People always think I'm helpless because I'm hard of hearing. But I'm not broken and I don't need to be fixed!

[@mhairibrown4957]

+Zulma Guasch PREACH!! also your icon is perfect!!

[@zulmaguasch6137]

+life&deaf :D Thank you!

[@da1earedbandit44]

Same

[@paulovinicius9940]

Zulma Guasch Becsuse people just want to help you, you fucking cretin.

[@Yoyomaclover]

Love how motivated you are to change people's perspective about things. I do believe a lot of people are VERY ignorant about these tips of things. It has happened to me with language. I look hispanic and they assume i don't speak english when in reality i have more education than they do. So I would just say that I am very proud of you for standing up for who you are and letting people know that there is more than who they believe is behind the sign language. YOU GO GIRL!!

[@kentku5395]

How do deaf people know that there's even a sound coming out of their mouth? Do they feel the vibration or?

[@slowfire2]

Kent Ku You can feel what you do with your voice, both with your mouth and throat and with your hands on your throat and face - and hearing people will tell you about the sounds you produce, I think. I've only seen videos of speech therapy and read about it.

[@alana8567]

Yes. They feel the vibration just like you do. She can't hear. Her ability to feel is just fine.

[@ronelaandallo]

Saw your video on Tumblr. You go girl!!!!! 👏👏👏👌👍

[@jasminewang77]

I love how you're so confedent and you're proud of being deaf

[@kyaw03]

Wow....You just literally give me chills. Awesome job! I freaking love it! XD

[@FrancesLouise23]

it's okay to forget if someone has like a disability or a disorder or a disease cuz you're not focusing on what they have your only focusing of what they are. I have a friend who is diabetic I keep on forgetting that she can't have sweets like I can I forget cuz I'm not so focus on what she has but who she is. so if you're complaining about how people keep on forgetting about what you have like a hearing disability speech disability excetera excetera. it's not their fault its no ones fault only the good people focus on who you are not what you have. Thank you.

[@cameronbrown4865]

Frances Louise I slightly disagree.... diabetic is completely different to being deaf you don’t need to remember that as much as speaking louder for a deaf person or not getting annoyed at that person for not hearing you. I understand where you are coming from completely I am personally deaf and even my best mate forgets to speak up but he never gets annoyed I ask him to speak up he will and he keeps it that way for the rest of the conversation and that’s what I believe she means by forgetting.

[@NenaMataHari]

"Never mind" is more offensive to me than a string of F bombs! Burns my ass!

[@gratewhite319]

Thank you so much for making this video

[@honeybumbee4421]

Your poem was so amazing! Your such a passionate speaker and it's just really great! You've just inspired me even more to accomplish my dreams! Great job! c:

[@Taydelphia]

Beautiful and well done! (Snapping)

[@slashavria15]

This is so amazingly good!!!!! Like not only did I get a hint of how you struggle when you are deaf(but still be happy) but also: this poem is so well written amd performed

[@michellel9595]

i think she is awesome! being deaf does not make you stupid or incompetent. it just means you have to go about things a different way than the regular way. Im not deaf but i can definitely see how frustrating it must be for deaf people to be asked ridiculous questions and have ignorant comments said to them. Middle finger to them all, you go girl! :)

[@alexandriacruz9834]

say it loud and proud. I'm so glad you spoke out Ren.

[@goldfishrule1990]

2:51 Savage. she is my new role model ppl

[@Steven84629]

Why are people snapping?

[@oliviaparker25]

i think that's how they clap but im not sure

[@Steven84629]

+_oliviagparker 95 What's wrong with normal clapping?

[@SurprizE98]

+Drunken Sailor I believe it's less quieter than clapping. Most don't want to be disturbed with loud noises while making a speech.

[@kelleylaurenceaumusic2285]

because this is a poetry slam session, and when someone finishes poetry or makes a great statement, they snap as oppose to clapping.

[@Steven84629]

Lol that's pretty lame. I'd prefer clapping.

[@charlizemarrazzo7792]

This is such a good video and everyone needs to see it!!!

[@careanne9260]

I am deaf and this was amazing. I was born with absolutely no hearing and I have troubles speaking, I have to sign and when I try to speak I studder to the point where it's unintelligible. Love this video! You are such an inspiration!

[@apostoliagkolfinopoulou3776]

she is so awesome

[@katlynkary]

I'm not deaf or hard of hearing but I honestly love her to death. She is so strong and proud as a woman, I wish I could be as confident and outspoken as her. It has nothing to do with her happening to be deaf, it had to do with her as a woman standing up for something she believes in, and happens to be, and letting people know the truth about it. Yes to some it may come off rude or slightly over the top but honestly I love it. You go Ren!!!

[@nickbezdek2847]

thank you Ren for making this video about how people like me who is deaf but spent a lots of time in speech therapy to hear and talk and you know the one thing I wish people who are not deaf and hard of hearing is that we're like everyone else but just in a different way

[@cutecami225]

You go girl!!! Stand up for what you believe in!

[@paolafrias]

I was looking forward to learning something about deaf people but she seemed really in my face about it and kind of rude because people aren't always aware and some of the things she said didn't even make sense so this feels like an 'in your face' video rather than an educational one

[@xFictionAficionadax]

+Paola Frias This was a Slam Poetry event (not an educational vid) which involves venting, harsh words, and stuff. A lot of people talk/shout like this. It's like reading a personal diary. It is good you are looking forward to learning, but this video was about Ren talking about people in her life and bullies who she'll try explaining things to and then they'll ignore her or just go "whatever". For info, check out KZbinr Rikki Poynter though---she is FANTASTIC about educating people on deaf culture and I think she's fun! 90% of her channel is about deafness that will help you understand this video more. I've learned a ton! It's also Deaf Awareness Month! Look for "12 Things NOT To Say to Deaf People", "No, I cannot lipread!", "What I Can and Cannot Hear", and "Bluffing: A Deaf Superpower". Those taught me a lot. Rikki also talks about types of deafness as well as something else called Audio Processing disorder. If you post and she says "that is offensive, here is why" don't feel hurt--she's just telling you like a best friend would calmly do and is not mad. Check her out, or at least some of her stuff, and tell me what you think! I'm a big fan of hers.

[@cameronbrown4865]

I personally believe that it’s easier to understand these problems when you’re deaf but I also believe this was like comedy for deaf people because it’s all almost sarcastic and sassy. This is far from educational 😂

[@camrynnicole4682]

so I liked the speech but why the middle finger?

[@Nay4everz]

She is showing that you don't need to speak to be understood. Also, she's probably angry with what they told her.

[@em01455]

+ToxicCamiBear Because she is trying to emphisise that she can say "Go fuck yourself" without talking and they will still understand her. Hoped this helped. :)

[@susanneplays1545]

+ToxicCamiBear Because its very rude to tell someone theyre lucky for for having a disability, but not as bad as someone else, especially when the person talking doesnt have said disability. You wouldnt tell someone with terminal cancer theyre lucky they at least have 2 years to live, would you?

[@Muikkinen]

+ToxicCamiBear To emphasize the point that communicating through speech isn't the only option for communication.

[@juliaterry9345]

+ToxicCamiBear IKR

[@maleighlovesbroadway]

I love your videos! I'm learning how to sign right now. I've always wanted to learn because it's so helpful to some people and I've learned a lot.

[@brittanybowman7293]

Okay, I know I'm late by almost 2 years, but I really like this Slam Poetry. It's awesome that you got to do this. And Sierra DeMulder is very inspirational.

[@jbokor23]

I just wanna like be you friend lol

[@eixeon395]

Wheres the poetry?

[@rolanddawson3657]

You've never been to a poetry meeting... have you? XD

[@eixeon395]

+Roland Dawson I haven't lol

[@mossmoss167]

I’ve only seen two of your videos but I already love your channel

[@meganalyssa6871]

i have watched this so many times. love this!

[@rubyfrost4665]

Same!

[@taraodonnell5387]

If she's deaf, how is her speech so clear?

[@selflesscae]

She has hearing aids

[@erinstratton9276]

she was born hearing. Her family has a gene that makes you become deaf later in life by slowly losing your hearing or suddenly.

[@kelleylaurenceaumusic2285]

because she's amazing

[@lmjenn65]

Years of speech therapy. I know because people are shocked I can speak so clearly too.

[@wookiesquad100]

because god blessed her

[@johnz7980]

your'e so beautiful :)

[@the1holycrusader962]

Absolutely love this. You go girl.

[@NoelleOrElle]

Love this! Go girl!

[@lemarseillais514]

I wish i would marry her :D in leather dress :P

[@josephturner3224]

Jesus Christ the snapping is so cringe.

[@SelenaIsPerfection]

I love your personality. It's obvious what strong personality you have, although you have something that holds you a little farther back than some people, you shine through it all :)

[@cormiyab.2779]

This was amazing in all ways possible.

[@Evelyn_Noname]

What the hell calm down girl. She acts like everybody bullies deaf people

[@gracie9643]

No, no she isn't. she's making a point about people who do.

[@gracie9643]

nice profile picture btw.

[@Evelyn_Noname]

Panic! at the Piløts thanks

[@mendingwall3823]

Evelyn Noname dont get me wrong, I am not threatened by a strong outspoken person but damn some of the attitude was unneeded. I'm trying to learn about asl but some people have this " I'm deaf and not only am I equal but I'm even better than you" attitude that pushes me away

[@caraalii]

Guys, this is slam poetry, it's pretty usual to use lots of hand motions and emphasis ^^ you can search some slam poetry up (one of my faves is Alex Deng)

[@CowTipper898]

A little bit too much attitude. And I noticed you said that you're proud to be deaf and don't need to be fixed while at the same time you wouldn't be able to be talking like that if someone didn't "fix" you and allow you to hear.

[@lbug123456]

She was born hearing and became Deaf.

[@CowTipper898]

+lbug123456 I never said she wasn't.

[@sarahrussett2803]

uhhh yeah so no one fixed her and allowed her to hear. she could simply hear

[@caraalii]

I feel like a lot of people still don't know, but this "attitude" is part of slam poetry. Try searching some up on KZbin, it's actually pretty cool

[@vademarofxeroes8416]

I seen slam poetry and a lot of them act like arseholes. The feminist ones scream and shout about patriarchy and I don't really see it as poetry. Poetry is an art form and 'slam poetry' is basically people listening to someone grunting and raving like a madman. It is the lowest form of poetry as it does not take much to scream at people and make them feel like crap.

[@justanormalalien4758]

This girl deserves an award. I'm serious she sent a good message with a bit of humor, she made me laugh a lot of times!

[@selflesscae]

Ren + thedailysign = life, both tell so well. Teach about deafness. 💗💗💗💖💖💖💖🖖🖖🖖

[@florchicana1478]

seriously, she needs to find shorts that fit her.

[@fumes4023]

She isn't even fat though. Lmao, I'd like to see you post a picture of yourself rather than making fun of others. I thought she looked great, you need to stop judging people based on their appearance.

[@miaandvalerie1650]

Flor Chicana Excuse me??!!!?? SHE AINT FAT THOSE SHORTS FIT HER

[@miaandvalerie1650]

Thurman Ulrich shhhhhhhhhhhh at least she's smarter and pretty rowdy than u

[@miaandvalerie1650]

Thurman Ulrich huh like u can look at ur mirror and see how fat u look in that skirt

[@kennedysings1354]

Rude

[@evianyperez9494]

Girl calm down!!Wtff she think she is

[@alanakelly1001]

Eviany Perez ikr

[@blackhawkra4443]

Ever heard of slam poetry?

[@miaandvalerie1650]

Who the fack u think u r fat as

[@joandoingsinging2611]

Eviany Perez she thinks she is voicing her opinions which lots of people are crapping upon

[@fernandathequeenenriquez3631]

Eviany Perez ikr

[@GrayeIra]

This is amazing! You do you Ren!

[@gracie5026]

You are an amazing person. You are an amazing role model! for girls, for deaf, all freaking people! ily

[@moonbrat749]

This was awesome. Thanks for sharing!!

[@sonyaanderson7843]

I understand every bit of what she has said and honestly it hit home right on the dot. Deaf and not being able to catch up to a conversation destroys me.

[@elicarranza6376]

This is fantastic and so witty, keep writing!

[@wilbur7016]

as soon as she said she was like "FIRST OF ALL" i knew she was boutta slay

[@beckigreen]

Oh please, not all hearing people are stupid like the examples she gives in this speech.

[@beckigreen]

I didn't say anything about being Deaf. I just stated that not all hearing people are like the examples she gave.

[@CocaineFormula]

Becki Green So many are though. Some people have never encountered a deaf individual. (I'm hearing, for the record)

[@kenwaylights]

Becki Green Okay sure. "Not all hearing people." Fair point. But enough hearing people are ridiculous like this that we get frustrated. Enough hearing people treat us like we're lesser for not having perfect hearing. Enough hearing people do the things Ren mentioned that we tend to have a problem with hearing people as a whole! So no, "not all hearing people." Just ENOUGH hearing people.

[@sydneyanne7327]

Becki Green First of all I'm not trying to cause drama, just trying to clear something up: She did not title the video "Things all hearing people say," She is giving examples of stupid things some hearing people say to deaf people

[@kenwaylights]

Billy Romano there are closed captions! Click the little CC button, they're not auto-captions, they're actual captions that Ren added.

[@shell92400]

"Not all deaf people are like this though." yeah sure okay, but EVERY deaf person has met a hearing person like this.

[@kkstar1297]

Love your poem. That was absolutely amazing. I’ve been learning sign language since I was in kindergarten. Now I can communicate with other people who are deaf. I don’t know every sign, but I know enough to be able to communicate to them. I would still like to learn more signs so I can speak more fluently to deaf people.

[@kxroq]

I love this

[@gabimaza780]

greatest thing I've ever seen!omfg I live this

[@mnmack001]

LOVED IT! keep it up. it was beautiful!! Deaf people are beautiful and so is ASL

[@ohwow1463]

This just proves how awesome people are

[@Jolovideos123]

Wow this made me cry good job!

[@wendyisgrowinginwisdom6350]

Thanks for this gutsy point of view. I can hear and I hate the loud and/or busy conversations that go on - ironically I talk too much and have to learn the art of 2 way conversation. I much prefer the respectful, quiet, patient, waiting-your-turn, my focus is on YOU conversation. I highly recommend the book "You're not listening" by journalist Kate Murphy. Listening is way more than the physical ability to hear - it is taking the time to learn about the person standing opposite you. I'm all for inclusivity and breaking down barriers. Thanks for your contribution.

[@ukulelegirl2016]

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 I have no words. This is amazing.

[@TuesdaysChild_77]

Thank you. So much. This is exactly how I feel.

[@bandchild5638]

This is so good I got goosebumps.