Chapter 2

The community

This chapter analyzes the conditions that led to the foundation of the first schools for the deaf and to the emergence of the first Deaf Associations. The history of Deaf people in Italy has been characterized by various educational approaches in which sign language assumed a different role either alongside or in opposition to the education in spoken language. The characteristics of the Deaf community are described, as how the perception of Italian sign language has changed over time. Examples of cultural products expressing the identity of this community are provided, and more recent changes determined by the use of social media in daily life are described. Special attention is reserved to the unexpected resilience and reaction expressed in view of the health emergency of the Coronavirus pandemic by the Italian Deaf Community.