Inclusivity In Social Spacies: A Lens On Deaf Muslims Religious Participation

Abstract

A socially inclusive society is one in which all people feel valued, and their inherent differences and diversity are respected while their basic needs are met, guaranteeing a life of dignity. While efforts are being made to promote a socially inclusive society for all, existing evidence suggests that Deaf people remain excluded in key social spaces particularly, places of worship. This study sought to explore the extent to which the Deaf access spaces of worship, the barriers, and the mechanisms for their inclusion in such spaces in Ghana. Framed by Social Inclusion Theory and case study design, the study employed semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and key informant interviews in obtaining data from 31 respondents, including Deaf Muslims, religious leaders and parents. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were employed in the data analysis. The study revealed that there are Deaf Muslims who desire to participate in worship but are often excluded due to the absence of sign language interpretation, limited awareness of Deaf needs among Imams, gendered religious rules, and negative societal attitudes. It is recommended that sign language interpreters be prioritised and engaged in places of worship while awareness-raising through educative programs on the communication needs of the deaf and elimination of discriminatory tendencies be stepped up in order to attain meaningful inclusion of Deaf Muslims in social spaces.