As I gazed out the airplane window across the beautiful Cascade Range mountains. I realized I’d never flown this far West. Going into the weekend I knew exactly what to expect, but at the same time I had no idea what to expect. As the plane landed and I walked. . . + Read More
Irish Sign Language: History + Culture
Dia dhuit, lovely people! (translated: Hello or literally, God to you in Gaelic) Come in and sit down to have cuppa and biscuits with me! Lemme regale you with stories about the Deaf people’s language, history and culture. The History of Irish Sign Language According to Wikipedia, the origins of. . . + Read More
Supporting Deaf Small Businesses
Deaf entrepreneurs across the globe are defying stereotypes and proving that hearing status poses no barrier to success as they carve out paths as small business owners.. . . + Read More
The Legacy of Martha’s Vineyard Sign Language
A village sign language once widely used on Martha’s Vineyard island from the early 1800s until 1952, Martha’s Vineyard Sign Language (MVSL) was utilized by both Deaf and hearing community members, so Deafness was not a barrier to public engagement.. . . + Read More
Deaf Authors Through History
In honor of the Deaf History Month let’s get to know a bit about a few Deaf Authors and the books they’ve written and published. In the last decade or so, Deaf and hard-of-hearing authors have started to appear more frequently in fiction and non-fiction book realm, which also has. . . + Read More
The History of Gallaudet University
Gallaudet University, founded in 1864, was the world’s first higher education institution designed specifically to serve deaf and hard of hearing students. . . . + Read More
History of Technology for Deaf People
Before the 20th century, technology to help Deaf people was very rare. Often, they were very expensive or unavailable. Most of the time, Deaf people didn’t know about their existence. They often missed out on information around them, so they had to find ways to overcome obstacles to live their. . . + Read More
Deaf Education: Oral vs Manual
Did you know that Alexander Graham Bell was a teacher at a deaf school in Boston? He was fluent in American Sign Language. His philosophy for the Deaf was advocating oralism. Bell took part in many historic events that nearly caused American Sign Language (ASL) to become extinct. Edward Miner. . . + Read More
The ‘Deaf President Now’ Movement
36 years ago, the ‘Deaf President Now’ movement ignited a revolution. What began as a fight for the first Deaf president at Gallaudet University blossomed into an international conversation about representation. Deaf President Now paved the way for future generations to embrace their Deafness with pride. Even decades later, the. . . + Read More
Why Learn from Deaf Teachers
In life, we encounter an array of perspectives that broaden our understanding. But one under appreciated fountain of wisdom exists within the Deaf community. As we strive for inclusivity and embrace different abilities, it’s vital we acknowledge the singular insights Deaf teachers provide. This blog unveils why learning from a. . . + Read More
Woodstock Cafe in Portland, Oregon
I had the pleasure of reaching out to Mr. Andre Gray, the visionary behind Woodstock Cafe, a unique coffee shop that celebrates sign language. During our conversation, he shared valuable insights about his inspiring journey and mission. Here’s what we can learn from Mr. Gray: Can you share the story. . . + Read More