Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Lady Gaga plans to learn sign language so she can communicate with her deaf fans

From Digital Spy:

Lady Gaga is to learn sign language so she can communicate with her deaf fans, reports have suggested.

The 'Judas' singer is planning to take lessons with a private tutor after being inspired by videos of her deaf fans signing along to her songs on YouTube.

"GaGa's already campaigned for gay rights in the States and has spoken out about political issues like immigration," a source told The Sun.

"Now she wants to make sure her deaf fans feel included too. Once she's mastered sign language she'll be able to respond to the videos that are online, and include signing in future live tours."

The news has garnered praise from the charity National Deaf Children's Society. Lucy Read, who is the head of the organization, commented: "We are delighted that Lady GaGa is making her music accessible to deaf young people by learning sign language.

"Many of her songs and messages tap into experiences that deaf young people share, such as bullying and feeling different to other children, but Lady GaGa channels these in a positive way. We know that the news will be very well received by deaf children and young people across the world."