I'll Tell You Later: Deaf Survivors of Dinner Table Syndrome

“I’ll tell you later.”

The most damaging promise a hearing family member can make to a Deaf person.

For centuries, Deaf people were expected to sit quietly when their hearing families shared a meal. Some might have asked the person sitting nearby, “What are they saying?” The usual response? “I’ll tell you later.” When the meal is done, the Deaf person would naturally follow up: “What did they say?” The usual response? “I’m sorry I forgot.” This transgression has now a name: Dinner Table Syndrome.