In the March 4, 2008, issue of The ASHA Leader, in the article "Take Action: Bills Would Reauthorize EHDI Funding," in the paragraph "What to Tell Your Legislator" there was a phrase that was inappropriate in my opinion.
The author referred to permanent hearing loss as a "birth defect." The use of the words "birth defect" seems inappropriate and "birth difference" could have been a better choice considering the audience. The Deaf community is a culturally relevant and important partner in the work to promote communication and rights for all who communicate differently. It is insensitive to describe infants as having "birth defects" due to permanent hearing loss when there is a world of possibility for all children no matter their communication style.
I commend those who promote and work for early detection of any difference in newborns: hearing, vision, blood, whatever, it is absolutely worthy and valuable information. I urge you to take care with your words so that you gain allies and not enemies in your pursuits.
Jennifer B. Shaw
East Lansing, Michigan