We do need more deaf people in Hollywood. But I don't think that deaf people always have to play a deaf role. I think we can play different roles. We need to see more diversity period. More people of color. More disabled people. More gender diversity. All kinds of diversity.

Millicent Simmonds

The deaf community relies so much on eye contact, expression and body language. It's such a huge part of who we are.

Millicent Simmonds

If you're disabled or different from what general society deems normal, it's fine. There will always be people who won't accept you, but there are others you can find who will. You're never alone.

Millicent Simmonds

I think it's really important that we have diversity - whether it's different languages, cultures - be involved in film and in the arts.

Millicent Simmonds

American Sign Language is a language. It's fun to learn, and it's different from other languages because you use your hands, you use your face, your facial expressions, and there is also an incredible culture that comes with it and an amazing community too, and through that, we can support each other.

Millicent Simmonds

I'm happy being deaf. I'm happy with my life and my family.

Millicent Simmonds

We have a wonderful world. I feel very lucky to be in it.

Millicent Simmonds

When I read the script for 'A Quiet Place', I immediately wanted to be a part of the film. It is such a unique story and I love my character, Regan.

Millicent Simmonds

Growing up, I never thought about becoming an actress because I never saw deaf people in TV or movies. I didn't think it was possible.

Millicent Simmonds

When I lost my hearing, my mom got a deaf mentor to come into the home.

Millicent Simmonds

When I was in 2nd or 3rd grade, the drama teacher at my deaf school noticed that I liked to tell stories and had really good expression. I could entertain people with my stories.

Millicent Simmonds

I'm from a really nice town. Full of nature, mountains, clean air, rock climbing. But I'd prefer New York City. I love the diversity here, the religions, the food - especially the food.

Millicent Simmonds

I think signing gave 'A Quiet Place' a unique quality. I think sign language is represented as beautiful and helpful.

Millicent Simmonds

I'd love to continue acting. Maybe start a business.

Millicent Simmonds

But I was always comedic and would tell stories and use a lot of expressions.

Millicent Simmonds

I have no problem with how people communicate. But I think it's important... for everyone to be open to learn sign language.

Millicent Simmonds

When I was younger I didn't want to hang around with anyone. But now I feel so comfortable. I convey my thoughts, my emotions, I can communicate better, I have a better understanding of the world. Now I have a sense of purpose. It makes me think a lot more about things.

Millicent Simmonds

To really understand a deaf person's experience, you need someone that is deaf to be able to tell you what their experience is.

Millicent Simmonds

What I want to do is encourage more of that, more deaf presence in TV, movies, acting, modeling - that's really what I want to work toward.

Millicent Simmonds

A lot of people say the middle child is the most adventurous. That's me!

Millicent Simmonds

I want to travel the world - like Egypt. I love history. That's my favorite subject at school. From the building of the pyramids to... King Tut. Their way of working without technology. I find all that fascinating.

Millicent Simmonds