Identity Resonance and the Resonant Encounter: Deaf Identity Development in Rochester, NY

Abstract

Deaf culture emerged in academic discourse as a full cultural entity several decades ago, and since then there have been attempts to create tools with which to measure the development of a Deaf cultural identity. In this paper, I attempt to develop a tool to help conceptualize a multi-faceted and fluid identity. I call this tool identity resonance: the idea that each person’s identity can be visualized as an energy wave that is composed of all the parts of themselves cumulatively developing the person’s sense of self. Using this tool, I look at how intersubjective encounters can help inform the development of a given entity’s identity, whether that entity is an individual or a community. Combined with key principles from linguistic anthropology, this tool helps to highlight tensions and moments of erasure within a culture. I apply this tool to my field research with the Rochester Deaf Community.