Liberia: Deaf Community 'Disappointed in Gov't and the National Elections Commission'

By Ambassador Abdullah Tani Konateh, Deaf Advocate Leader 

The challenges faced by the deaf community in Liberia are real and need urgent attention. It is disappointing that the government and the National Elections Commission (NEC) have not done enough to ensure that the deaf community is included in the voter registration process. The lack of sign language interpreters during the registration process is a significant barrier that prevents deaf people from accessing vital information.

The voter registration ID cards are essential for every citizen to participate in the democratic process, including deaf people. However, the lack of sign language interpreters means that many deaf people will not understand the information on the cards. Additionally, some deaf people in rural areas may not be able to read and write, which makes it even more challenging for them to understand the registration process.

It is unacceptable that the government and the NEC have neglected the needs of the deaf community. Deaf people are Liberian citizens and have the same rights as every other citizen to participate in the democratic process. The failure to provide sign language interpreters during the voter registration process is a violation of their rights.

It is crucial for the government and the NEC to work with sign language interpreters during the voter registration ID card and general election. This will ensure that deaf people have access to the same information as their hearing counterparts and can participate in the democratic process. Additionally, outreach activities should be conducted in rural areas to provide information to deaf people who may not be able to read and write.

The lack of access to information and services for the deaf community in Liberia is a human rights issue that needs to be addressed. The international community should be made aware of this issue, and pressure should be put on the government and the NEC to take action. The government must take responsibility and ensure that the deaf community is not left behind in the democratic process.

In conclusion, the government and the NEC need to prioritize the needs of the deaf community and provide sign language interpreters during the voter registration process. This is a fundamental step in promoting social inclusion and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the democratic process. The deaf community deserves equal rights and opportunities as every other Liberian citizen, and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure this is achieved.

Inclusion is a fundamental aspect of any democratic society. It ensures that all members of a community have the right to participate and have their voices heard in the decision-making process. However, for people with disabilities such as deafness, social inclusion can be a significant challenge. They face barriers that limit their access to information and services, which in turn affects their ability to participate in civic activities such as voter registration.

Liberia, like many countries, has a legal framework that protects the rights of people with disabilities, including the right to vote. The country's constitution recognizes the rights of every Liberian citizen to participate in the political process without discrimination. However, despite these legal protections, many people with disabilities, especially those who are deaf, continue to face exclusion from the political process.

To address this issue, there is a need for a nationwide Civil voter’s registration awareness campaign that includes measures to promote social inclusion for deaf people. The campaign should focus on creating awareness of the importance of voter registration and provide information about the registration process, including deadlines, requirements, and locations.

To ensure that deaf people are included in the campaign, the organizers should consider the following measures:

Use Sign Language Interpretation

One of the biggest barriers that deaf people face is a lack of access to information. Many people with hearing impairments rely on sign language as their primary means of communication. Therefore, it is essential to include sign language interpretation in all campaign materials, including television and radio advertisements, posters, and leaflets. This will ensure that deaf people have access to the same information as their hearing counterparts.

Provide Written Materials

Another way to promote social inclusion for deaf people is to provide written materials that are accessible to them. This could include providing information in large print, Braille, or electronic formats that can be read by screen readers. Providing written materials will allow deaf people to access information independently, and they can refer to them as needed.

Conduct Outreach Activities

Organizers of the campaign should conduct outreach activities specifically targeting the deaf community. This could include visiting schools for the deaf, community centers, and other areas where deaf people gather. These outreach activities should provide information about the importance of voter registration and the registration process. This will ensure that deaf people have the opportunity to participate in the political process.

Partner with Deaf Organizations

To ensure that the campaign is effective in reaching the deaf community, organizers should partner with organizations that work with deaf people. These organizations have the expertise and experience to design and implement outreach activities that are specifically tailored to the needs of the deaf community. Additionally, these organizations can help ensure that the campaign materials are accessible and appropriate for deaf people.

In conclusion, promoting social inclusion for deaf people is essential for a democratic society. By ensuring that deaf people have access to information and services, they can participate in the political process and have their voices heard. A nationwide Civil voter’s registration awareness campaign that includes measures to promote social inclusion for deaf people is necessary to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.