CONTEÚDOS COMUNICACIONAIS E MIDIÁTICOS EM DESASTRES CLIMÁTICOS E SEU IMPACTO EM PESSOAS SURDAS

Abstract

Recent events such as the floods in Rio Grande do Sul have intensified debates about climate disasters, which imminence had been warned for decades by experts. In this context, there is a constant dissemination of content through digital media, often with incomplete or unverified information, as well as a recurring lack of communication accessibility for deaf people, even with legislation guarantees. This study aimed to analyze the risk factors generated by the distribution of different types of content about disasters, without the mediation of communication accessibility, as well as the possible emotional impacts of this communication on the deaf population. A narrative literature review was conducted based on reference authors in the areas of disasters, digital technology, and accessibility. The results indicated a lack of adequate subtitles and, especially, the absence of sign language interpreters, as well as entrapment within the "filter bubbles" generated by algorithms. These elements, combined with features like "infinite feeds", can extend feelings of anguish and helplessness when seeking additional information, and create the perception that disasters are more prevalent than they actually are. It is noted that ableism, the prejudice related to people with disabilities, is updated on environmental issues, making it imperative to enforce legal oversight to guarantee the right to accessibility, the deaf people participation in forums discussing climate disasters, and greater knowledge about the specificities of deaf culture among producers of entertainment, news, and alert content. Further research in this area is recommended, with the participation of deaf people, reinforcing their protagonism and enabling new meaning to narratives.