What is #TheDDBHHTax?
The Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing (DDBHH) tax refers to the extra financial, emotional, and time-related costs that Deaf, DeafBlind and hard of hearing individuals encounter due to systemic barriers, ineffective policies and procedures, and a lack of awareness.
Similar to the disability tax and minority tax, the DDBHH tax often results in Deaf, DeafBlind and hard of hearing individuals spending time advocating for communication access, challenging harmful myths and stereotypes, and being burdened with educating others just to get a shot to prove their worth.
Individually and collectively, these taxes can contribute to emotional and mental stress and affect daily life for Deaf, DeafBlind and hard of hearing individuals, from healthcare and education to employment and consumer experiences.
All the while, hearing individuals do not incur these unique extra costs.
Join the Movement for Change
It is our goal that raising awareness of #TheDDBHHTax will help push for policy changes and greater investment in driving cultural awareness, equity and accessibility.
By sharing your stories and experiences on social media, you drive authentic representation and create visibility around how these taxes emotionally, socially and economically impact members of our community.
“As a unified community, we need to create awareness in order to effect change that addresses the different burdens that each of us encounter, regardless of whether we’re Deaf, DeafBlind, hard of hearing or late-deafened.”
Corey Axelrod
Founder and CEO, 2axend