I could see their perspective, yes. They also mentioned that they could communicate at a noisy club easily while I couldn't, but that doesn't have much to do w

I could see their perspective, yes. They also mentioned that they could communicate at a noisy club easily while I couldn't, but that doesn't have much to do with being hearing/deaf but exclusively due to knowing sign language. My conclusion is that they actually are disabled, but no less deserving of respect and love as those who can hear.