What do Deaf people think about alcohol?

We don’t talk about it much, but alcohol is a big part of most people’s social lives, whether we want it that way or not. As disabled people, our relationship with alcohol can be more complicated for a whole bunch of reasons.

So let’s have the conversation. In this video series, we dive into ableist assumptions, those traumatic drink-driving ads, and how we feel about our relationships with alcohol.

English transcript (translated from New Zealand Sign Language:

Sefina: Going back to the first time I drank, at the start I didn't like the taste of Cody. It was a teenage drink. I didn’t really like the taste the first time.

Brandy: My first alcohol was, thinking back, was an envy vodka, yeah. The first time I didn’t really like the taste, it was quite strong the first time plus I felt quite tipsy and the taste … well … but gin and vodka with a mixer, that tastes alright. What about you?

Sefina: When I first drank cody, the first time the taste was funny and weird, like coca-cola mixed with alcohol. It was strong and had a strong smell as well.

Off-camera producer: Have you ever done a shoey?

Sefina: Never

Brandy: Yes I have with Deaf friends a while back, yeah. It was a good experience but the taste was … umm … wet and dirty but it was a good experience, yeah, maybe one day you will give it a go.

Sefina: I don’t want to drink anything from a shoe, but maybe I’ll try it one time one day. Yeah.

Off-camera producer: Do you think a yardie is accessible?

Brandy: Oooh, depends, it really depends if you feel comfortable and checking if you want to or they can say no - making sure people feel comfortable first. It can’t be forced because it could impact them emotionally or affect their health. You don't want that. Their wishes must be respected.

Sefina: True

Brandy: What do you think?

Sefina: I don't think it’s nice. If I was asked, I’d say no, I wouldn’t feel comfortable, so I’d say no thank you.

Off-camera producer: Who would win a game of beer pong?

Brandy: I'm more competitive but not aggressive when it comes to winning or losing. It’s more about fun, making sure other people feel comfortable and encouraging other people so they’re involved and enjoy themselves. I don't want to think too competitively. It should be fair and enjoyable for all involved. What about you?

Sefina: For me, playing beer pong, you want to make it a fun competition, who wins or loses doesn’t matter, you want to have a laugh and have fun.

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