Selective muteness is the most common form of muteness, a person who chooses or has an inability to speak. There are various reasons for individuals to avoid audible communication which include shyness, social anxiety, and others due to medical reasons. Those that choose not to speak are often labeled as a silent rather than mute because the external factors may not be related to a speech disorder.

Humanity often has a habit of shutting up those they choose not to hear from, often with abusive behavior to stifle the speech that makes them uncomfortable. These abusive individuals deny others of the ability to be heard by destroying their sense of self worth and that their voice is worthy of others. In these circumstances trust is key to rebuilding a silent person to someone with a valuable voice. All people deserve to be heard, even when it does not align to what we believe in.

Technology is now enabling a new form of voice. Artificial intelligence makes it easier than ever to rob someone of their unique image and sound and replicate words into their personality and personhood. The new technology is an intellectual theft of the person and a misrepresentation and characterization of those mimicked and casted to be imitated. On today’s show I use an example of Joe Biden and Donald Trump, who both are speaking to me through artificial intelligence.

This week I was reminded that our voice is an identifier that should be treated with compassion and respect. It should never be delegated to “text-to-speech” for anyone to use. A student who was silent finally spoke. His words to me, “I trust you. I trust you, and want you to hear my voice”. These words moved me to tears. His voice was unique and amazing, and I celebrated that he was able to break free of his limitations.

His voice was a reminder of what is ours. I want YOU to hear my voice. I trust you. Do you trust me? If so, let us begin by listening and allowing others to be free to speak.