Every year, the last full week of September is celebrated as the International Week of the Deaf (IWD). This vibrant and significant event shines a spotlight on Deaf culture, Deaf communities, and the rights of Deaf individuals around the world. It’s a time to celebrate diversity, raise awareness, and advocate. . . + 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.
Embracing Deaf Awareness Month
September is a significant month for fostering understanding and recognition of Deaf culture and the challenges faced by the Deaf and hard of hearing community. Deaf Awareness Month, observed annually in September, provides an opportunity for us to celebrate the richness of Deaf culture, raise awareness about communication accessibility, and. . . + Read More
Signs of Salvation: Deaf Missions Film
Lights, camera, sign! Have you heard about the groundbreaking movie “Jesus: A Deaf Missions Film”? It’s not your typical movie—it’s a cinematic wonder that tells the story of Jesus entirely in American Sign Language (ASL). What’s even more amazing is that it was created by a Deaf cast and crew,. . . + Read More
The Role of Deaf Service Dogs
In today’s society, the need for accessibility and support for the Deaf community is increasingly recognized. Among the innovative solutions that have emerged is the invaluable partnership between Deaf individuals and service dogs. Deaf service dogs play a vital role in bridging the communication gap, empowering Deaf individuals, and promoting. . . + Read More
Influential Deaf Women – Then and Now
The world has witnessed numerous trailblazers who have shattered barriers and left an indelible mark on history. Among these remarkable individuals are Deaf women whose courage, resilience, and determination have paved the way for progress and equality for the Deaf community. Despite facing communication challenges and societal prejudices, these exceptional. . . + 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
Deaf Certified Interpreters
While American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters are common, Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDIs) are less common. However, CDIs share many similarities with ASL interpreters, possessing specialized knowledge and skills that ASL interpreters lack training in. The relationship between CDIs and ASL interpreters resembles that between Special Forces and a town Sheriff;. . . + Read More
Black Deaf History
At Sign Language Blitz we recognize our shared humanity, and our collective need to observe our specific cultural heritages & histories. We support people across boundaries of race, faith, orientation and identities in the face of ongoing discrimination, injustice, bias, and lack of inclusion. Though information and education exist, bias. . . + Read More
How Do Deaf People Learn to Read?
The path to literacy for Deaf individuals is unique compared to hearing individuals, as they navigate a spoken language-centric world to master reading. This blog unravels the strategies and experiences that enable literacy development within the Deaf community. From birth, Deaf infants are frequently exposed to visual forms of communication,. . . + Read More