There are still people who do not believe that the Deaf are distinct people groups around the world. Of course, we know that they speak a different language than we do (sign language). However, did you know that there are different sign languages spoken by the various Deaf people groups in countries of the world? Because of the distinct languages spoken by Deaf people, this is a barrier to their understanding and acceptance of the gospel. Additionally, the Deaf see themselves as a people group and have a great affinity for one another. The following video by the BBC shows how important it is for us to recognize and cross the language barrier and how sign language brings the Deaf into a common affinity:

(Thank Jim!)