ACCESSIBILITY IN FREEMASONRY: THE CHALLENGES FOR DEAF PE-OPLE. IS IT POSSIBLE?

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the challenges faced by deaf people within Fre-emasonry, reflecting on accessibility and inclusion in this space traditionally marked by rites, symbolism, and practices of a confidential nature. Based on the assumption that Freemasonry is founded on the principles of equality, fra-ternity, and justice, the study questions the extent to which these values are actually implemented when it comes to the participation of deaf people. The methodology employed was qualitative, involving documentary analysis of Brazilian legislation on accessibility, semi-structured interviews with deaf and hearing Freemasons, and observations of Masonic meetings. The results indi-cate that significant communication barriers still exist, such as the absence of Libras interpreters and the lack of accessible materials, revealing a gap between Freemasonry's discourse of equality and its inclusive practices. It is concluded that accessibility within Freemasonry is possible, provided there is an institutional commitment to adopting effective measures, such as the pre-sence of interpreters, adapted materials, and training on deaf culture. This transformation not only guarantees the linguistic and cultural rights of deaf people, but also reinforces the essence of Freemasonry itself.