In the bustling city of Hangzhou, a new kind of livestream is capturing the attention of millions. Silent yet expressive, deaf anchors like Ziwei are using sign language to revolutionize the way hearing-impaired consumers shop online in China.
According to China’s Sixth National Census in 2010, nearly 21 million people are hearing-impaired. For these individuals, everyday tasks, including online shopping, present unique challenges. Communication barriers often make it difficult to interact with sellers, leaving many feeling isolated in the digital marketplace.
In July 2019, the first group of deaf anchors began livestreaming in Hangzhou, marking a significant step towards inclusivity. Ziwei, one of these pioneers, connects with hearing-impaired consumers by introducing products through sign language. Her livestreams not only showcase goods but also foster a sense of community among viewers.
“Livestreaming is not easy for us,” Ziwei shares through her signs. “But we persist because we want to help our community.” Despite the challenges, Ziwei and her colleagues are determined to bridge the communication gap, ensuring that the hearing-impaired are not left behind in China’s rapidly evolving e-commerce sector.
Their efforts are paying off. The silent livestreams have garnered attention from both consumers and businesses, highlighting the importance of accessibility in online platforms. By empowering the hearing-impaired community, these anchors are not only changing the way people shop but also raising awareness about the need for inclusive practices.
As China’s e-commerce continues to expand, the work of deaf anchors like Ziwei serves as an inspiring example of how technology can be harnessed to support and connect marginalized communities. Their silent voices are making a loud impact, echoing the possibilities of a more inclusive digital future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
