Breaking Barriers Through Art and Storytelling

Growing up as a Deaf Black child, I didn’t see anyone like me—Deaf, Black, and creative—represented in the world of art. This lack of representation left me with a void.

It fuelled a passion inside me: to become the change I wished I had seen. 

I wanted to show the world that Deaf BIPOC individuals could thrive as artists, storytellers, and leaders. I wanted young Deaf kids—especially those who look like me—to see themselves reflected on stage, in art, and in the stories we tell.

Representation isn’t just about being seen, it’s about empowering others to dream bigger, believe in themselves, and know they are not alone.

Today, as a Deaf Black artist, mental health therapist, and father of four, I am committed to inspiring Deaf BIPOC youth to embrace their identities and dreams. 

My journey as a performer has taken me to incredible places, sharing Deaf storytelling with audiences all over the world. From performing Fernando and His Llama Friend in the UK and Colombia to exploring what it’s like to be Deaf in a hearing world in But The Truth Is… at the Sound Off Festival, each experience has been unforgettable.

Before this, I had only travelled to places like Jamaica and Mexico, so going to Europe and South America was a new adventure. I loved trying their amazing food, seeing their unique fashion styles, and exploring the beautiful sights. The thing that really stood out to me was meeting Deaf artists from both countries.

In the UK, they use British Sign Language (BSL); in Colombia, they use Colombian Sign Language (LSC).

Communicating was a fun challenge—we used some universal signs, gestures, and even translation apps to text back and forth. Before the trip, we took time to learn basic signs in both languages, which helped us connect with each other and show respect for their cultures. The Deaf artists were so welcoming, and we bonded right away.

One of my favourite moments was in Colombia when I met Deaf youths who looked like me. After my performance, they came up to talk and learn more about me. It was a powerful feeling I hadn’t experienced in Canada. Knowing I could inspire them and connect on that level was the best part of the whole trip.

Touring these shows reminded me of how powerful art can be. It’s not just about performing, but about building connections and celebrating our shared stories, no matter where we come from.

Most recently, I had the honour of portraying Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Show, a role that pushed me to explore new dimensions of my craft. These experiences continue to reaffirm my belief in the power of storytelling to connect and inspire change.

In addition to my work as an artist, I am a mental health therapist.

I help individuals explore their personal stories, using their experiences as a source of strength and resilience. I blend creativity and therapy to support others, always remembering the importance of embracing who we are—our identities, struggles, and dreams.

Parenthood, too, plays a vital role in my journey. 

Being a father of four has taught me patience and adaptability. It’s also shown me that representation matters—showing my children that their dreams are achievable is one of the greatest lessons I can pass on to them. Even Ruben, my loyal dog, adds his presence and energy to our family dynamic, teaching me the importance of grounding myself in the joy and love I share with those I care about.

Touring these shows reminded me of how powerful art can be. It’s not just about performing, but building connections and celebrating our shared stories, no matter where we come from.

I currently work as a Deaf interpreter for MT Space Theatre alongside Courage and Juan. We’re preparing for the Work-in-Progress Mini Festival on January 18, 2025, where we’ll provide ASL interpretation for four performances: Double Bill: Homecoming, Before I Die, Anchors, and Uncivilized. This is an exciting opportunity to further bridge accessibility in the arts.

At the same time, I’m taking virtual Visual Vernacular courses to improve my ASL poetry skills. I aim to learn how to translate English songs and poems into sign language—a skill I’m developing under my Deaf instructor, Eric Epstein.

Looking ahead, Courage and I have been discussing creating a script together based on our experiences of being raised by single mothers. This idea is personal and important to us, but I know I’ll need guidance on where to start and how to make it meaningful.

Art and storytelling continue to inspire me to connect with others and grow as an artist, interpreter, and creator. I’m excited to see where these experiences will take me next.

– Robert Haughton

About Robert Haughton

Robert is a Jamaican-American Black Deaf artist, dad of four, and full-time mental health therapist for Deaf and hard-of-hearing children and youth. He has performed worldwide, including in Scotland, the UK, and Colombia.

Passionate about the Black Deaf experience, Robert is currently preparing for a February comedy show while working on a project about justice, art, and access.

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