Well, since this falls under the scope of making available auditory information (i.e. an announcement made over the speaker system) available to deaf employees in an alternative format (i.e. written), then it really does fall under the scope of the ADA and reasonable accommodation. I agree that it was most likely due tothoughtlessness...but then most failures to accomodate are the result of thoughtlessness moreso than intentional discrimination. The point is, whether it was a failure to think, or whether it was intentional, it still resulted in the same effect. And the effect is what the ADA seeks to resolve. I agree. Calling it to the attention of management will probably prevent it happening again. Sometimes, however, management needs to be reminded that what might seem minor to them could have serious consequences under the law.
