Critically Examining Inclusion and Parity for Deaf Global South Researchers of Colour in the Field of Sign Language Linguistics

Abstract

Abstract There is a problem with the inclusion of deaf researchers particularly when it comes to racial parity in sign language research. This chapter foregrounds the discussion to examine the particular case of some deaf researchers from the majority People of Colour Global South. The chapter uses a multipronged methodology, starting with auto-ethnographic data to describe how the authors arrived at the point of carrying out this research. Secondly, an analysis of the recent meetings of a major sign language conference was conducted. Finally, the authors conducted individual interviews of and group discussions among deaf researchers of colour in the Global South and examined certain emerging themes. The chapter ends with concrete suggestions and actions for improving equity and parity for these researchers, which the authors argue is critical for improving the field of sign language linguistics.