Linguistic Imperialism

The imposition of one language or language modality over others, often by dominant groups over minority language communities. In deaf contexts, linguistic imperialism manifests when spoken language is privileged over sign language, such as forcing deaf individuals to use speech-to-text or text-based AI systems rather than supporting native sign language communication. This form of oppression has historical roots in oralism movements that banned sign language in deaf education. Accessibility practitioners should recognize that providing communication access means supporting users' preferred language modalities, not imposing majority-language solutions.