In times of crisis, access to information can mean the difference between life and death. Yet, for Jamaica’s d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing community, emergency response systems remain largely inaccessible, leaving thousands at risk when disaster strikes.
Despite the country’s frequent encounters with hurricanes, flash floods, and other climate-related hazards, public safety messages continue to be designed primarily for those who can hear. While the government occasionally employs sign language interpreters for major broadcasts, critical updates—such as storm warnings, evacuation notices, and shelter information—are still delivered in ways that exclude non-hearing individuals.
“It’s not just about translating words. It’s about making sure d/Deaf people have full, direct access to life-saving information when they need it,” said an advocate from the Jamaica Association for the Deaf (JAD). “If you’re scrambling to evacuate and don’t have time to wait for someone to interpret a message for you, you’re already at a disadvantage.”
Jamaica’s failure to fully integrate sign language into its emergency communication protocols reflects a broader issue of accessibility. Currently, none of the country’s major television stations provide consistent Jamaican Sign Language (JSL) interpretation for emergency alerts. Closed captioning is also limited, often inaccurate, or completely absent from crucial broadcasts. As a result, d/Deaf individuals must rely on second-hand information from family members, neighbors, or social media—delays that could cost lives in fast-moving disasters.
Beyond media accessibility, gaps in emergency shelter support and rescue operations further exacerbate the issue. Many shelters lack staff trained in JSL, making it difficult for d/Deaf evacuees to communicate their needs. In search-and-rescue scenarios, emergency teams often rely on verbal instructions like “Call out if you need help!”—a method that is ineffective for those who cannot hear.
Advocates are calling for systemic change, urging the government to enforce accessibility requirements for all emergency communications. “It’s not a matter of convenience; it’s a matter of human rights,” said one activist. “Inclusion should not be an afterthought.”
With climate change intensifying the frequency and severity of natural disasters, Jamaica has an urgent responsibility to ensure its emergency response systems are truly inclusive. Until then, d/Deaf communities will remain dangerously vulnerable—left in silence when they need information the most.
