Day 25. Melissa Yingst and Rogan Shannon Amplifying Voices Online.
How Deaf Content Creators Are Transforming Social Media
“Social media gives us a platform to be seen, heard, and understood in ways that weren’t possible before.”
— Melissa Yingst
In an increasingly digital world, social media has become a powerful tool for advocacy, education, and storytelling—especially for the Deaf community. Deaf content creators are using platforms like YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter to amplify their voices, challenge misconceptions, promote accessibility, and foster connections across cultures.
Two trailblazers in this movement are Melissa Yingst and Rogan Shannon, Deaf creators who have built influential online presences, educating and inspiring people around the world. Let’s dive into their journeys and discover how they are using their platforms to make a difference.
Meet the Creators: Melissa Yingst & Rogan Shannon
Melissa Yingst – Breaking Barriers in Digital Media: Journalist, Advocate, and Storyteller
Melissa Yingst is a Deaf Latina journalist, content creator, and advocate who uses her platform to discuss Deaf identity, intersectionality, mental health, and social justice issues. With a background in journalism and media, she has worked as a news anchor for Sign1News and co-hosted the show “The Daily Moth”, bringing current events to the Deaf community in ASL.
Through her social media platforms, Melissa also shares personal experiences as a Deaf Latina woman, cultural pride, and the importance of mental health conversations within the Deaf community.
“Deaf representation matters. We deserve to see ourselves in the media, telling our own stories in our own language.”
Rogan Shannon – Book Lover, Travel Vlogger, and Accessibility Advocate: ASL YouTuber & Deaf LGBTQ+ Creator
Rogan Shannon is a Deaf LGBTQ+ YouTuber and vlogger known for his book reviews, travel vlogs, and discussions on Deaf culture and accessibility. Through his engaging content, Rogan creates a bridge between the Deaf and hearing communities by promoting captioned content, language accessibility, and Deaf-friendly spaces.
His channel is a safe space for ASL users, book lovers, and LGBTQ+ individuals looking for authentic representation. His videos cover topics like Deaf queer identity, sign language learning tips, and book recommendations featuring Deaf and disabled authors.
“Deaf creators bring a unique perspective to social media. We tell stories visually, and that changes how people connect with us.”
Why Deaf Representation in Social Media Matters
In a world where most digital content is audio-based, Deaf individuals often face barriers to equal access, accurate representation, and mainstream visibility. Deaf creators like Melissa Yingst and Rogan Shannon are leading the way in:
✅ Advocating for captions and accessible content
✅ Creating space for Deaf stories and perspectives
✅ Educating hearing audiences about Deaf culture
✅ Challenging stereotypes about Deaf identity
✅ Bridging the gap between Deaf and hearing communities
With social media, Deaf people no longer have to wait for mainstream media to tell their stories—they can tell them themselves.
Resources & Further Reading
📚 Articles & Features
🔹 How Deaf Content Creators Are Changing the Digital World
🔹 Why Captioning Matters: Making Social Media Inclusive
🎥 Videos & Interviews
▶️ Melissa Yingst on Intersectionality and Deaf Latina Identity
▶️ Rogan Shannon’s ASL Book Reviews & Accessibility Talks
Join the Movement! Support Deaf Content Creators
Want to help Deaf creators thrive online? Here’s how you can make an impact:
✅ FOLLOW & SHARE Deaf creators – Visibility matters! Follow, like, and comment on their content to support their work.
✅ ADVOCATE for captions & accessibility – If you see a video without captions, ask for them! Accessible content benefits everyone.
✅ ENGAGE & EDUCATE – Learn about Deaf culture, ASL, and accessibility by following Deaf-led platforms.
Social media has the power to amplify voices that have long been overlooked. Thanks to Deaf creators like Melissa Yingst and Rogan Shannon, the digital world is becoming a more inclusive and vibrant space for all.
💙 Who are your favorite Deaf content creators?
💙 How can your engagement with Deaf content creators online promote Deaf inclusion in social media?
Tomorrow, we’ll share the story of Claudia L Gordon, and her trailblazing journey.
Learn more: The Deaf Set works to connect Deaf talent to the mainstream media.
#UU #UUA #CelebrateDiversity #DeafCulture #DeafHistoryMonth #DisabilityAwareness
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