Learning ASL is exciting, but the real magic happens when you step outside the classroom and spend time in the Deaf community. In Tucson, there are many welcoming spaces and events where new ASL learners can connect, practice, and learn about Deaf culture. Here’s how to get started as a. . . + Read More
Culture
Deaf people have their own culture. Deaf culture is very different than hearing culture. At Sign Language Blitz, we believe learning the culture goes along with learning the language. Use these blogs as a resource while completing your lessons.
How Get Involved in the Deaf Community as a New ASL Student
Learning ASL is more than memorizing signs, it’s about experiencing Deaf culture and building real-life connections. As an ASL student, spending time in the Deaf community helps you learn naturally, develop cultural awareness, and practice your skills in authentic settings. Think of it like learning Spanish in Spain or French. . . + Read More
Marlee Matlin’s Not Alone Anymore Documentary
Academy Award–winning actor and advocate Marlee Matlin is the focus of a new feature documentary, Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore. Directed by Shoshannah Stern, the film centers American Sign Language, uses open captions throughout, and removes conventional voiceover so the story is told visually and directly in ASL. It is. . . + Read More
Deaf West Theatre’s “American Idiot”
When Green Day’s American Idiot first hit Broadway in 2010, it wowed audiences with its raw energy and punk-rock storytelling. But no production has reimagined the show quite like Deaf West Theatre’s American Sign Language (ASL) adaptation. By weaving ASL into the music, choreography, and design, Deaf West created a. . . + Read More
Who is Carter Bryant?
When you think of NBA rookies making a splash, you might picture highlight reels, buzzer beaters, and slam dunks. Carter Bryant has all of that, but he’s also bringing something far more meaningful to the court: a deep, personal commitment to advocating for the Deaf community. As a Grandchild of. . . + Read More
Deaf Culture Books for Children
As a Deaf child growing up in the oral mainstream setting, I lacked access to books that could have guided me through the difficulties I faced. However, today there are many books available for all ages that provide support and resources for Deaf individuals. Here are some recommendations that I. . . + Read More
Certified Hearing Interpreters
There is a common misconception that American Sign Language Interpreters are just people who have a certain level of fluency in ASL which makes them eligible to interpret for any Deaf person on the street. The truth is, American Sign Language interpreters often have a degree in interpreting, studying the. . . + Read More
Why are Deaf Studies & Interpreter Programs Important?
Deaf Studies and Interpreter Training programs play crucial roles in fostering inclusivity, promoting understanding, and breaking down communication barriers for the Deaf community. These programs are essential for creating a more equitable and accessible society. Deaf Studies Programs Deaf Studies programs provide a comprehensive exploration of Deaf culture, history, language,. . . + Read More
How Are Deaf Schools Funded?
Deaf schools, which provide specialized educational environments for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, are funded through a variety of sources. These sources include state and federal funding, as well as private donations and charitable organizations. Public Funding State Funds State tax revenues are a primary source of funding for public schools,. . . + Read More
Why are Deaf Schools Closing?
In recent years, there has been a concerning trend of Deaf schools closing. This is due to a complex mix of factors, including the push for mainstreaming, funding challenges, and declining enrollment. Mainstreaming and Inclusion Shift Towards Mainstream Education There’s been a significant movement towards integrating Deaf children into mainstream. . . + Read More