Deaf Gain as Civic Glue: The Value of Deaf America to a Polarized, Sorted, Fragmented Nation

• In Event: Political Representation: Race, Gender, and Age I

Abstract

American civil society is in decline. Rising affective polarization, increasing social sorting, and the erosion of associational life have deepened social divisions, fostered disillusionment, and undermined trust and cooperation. Existing remedies have proven inadequate, impractical, or ineffective. This article argues that Deaf America—characterized by significant political, educational, and socioeconomic diversity, robust associational networks, and a shared linguistic and cultural identity—cultivates organic, durable, and cross-cutting civic institutions. These institutions promote viewpoint diversity and foster connections across entrenched divides, addressing critical shortcomings in prevailing approaches to civic renewal. In doing so, this case expands political science’s understanding of democratic health by reframing minority communities that serve as overlooked yet promising models for democratic revitalization.

Author

• Brendan Stern, Gallaudet University