Heather Whitestone is an inspiring individual who overcame significant challenges in her life to become the first deaf woman to be crowned Miss America in 1995. Her triumph in the pageant brought widespread attention not only to her personal achievements but also to the potential of people with disabilities. Here’s. . . + Read More
History
Deaf people have a very rich cultural history. Through out the years, Deaf people have been journeyed from being silenced to overcoming oppression. Read these blogs while you are completing your lessons to better understand Deaf history and perspective.
Minnesota’s Thompson Hall Deaf Club
This month of November holds a special significant event for Deaf Minnesotans. It is 108th anniversary for their Deaf club, Charles Thompson Memorial Hall. Charles Thompson Memorial Hall, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States, is a historic clubhouse that holds significance in Deaf culture. Constructed in 1916, it stands. . . + Read More
Abbé Charles-Michel de l’Épée
Today, we honor the birthday of Abbé Charles-Michel de l’Épée, born on November 25, 1712. A visionary educator and advocate, de l’Épée made groundbreaking contributions to the world of Deaf education. In 1760, he founded the first free public school for the Deaf in Paris, Institut National de Jeunes Sourds. . . + Read More
Spanish and Latinx Sign Languages
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of celebration and appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions that make up the Hispanic and Latin American world. One aspect of this diverse heritage that often goes unnoticed is the vibrant realm of Spanish and Latin American Sign Languages. Understanding. . . + Read More
Happy International Week of the Deaf!
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
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
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
The World’s First Public Deaf School
A brief history of the world’s oldest deaf school in Paris, France, otherwise known as Institute National de Jeunes Sourds de Paris. Today, on July 29th, we commemorate the anniversary of the Institut National de Jeunes Sourds de Paris (National Institute for Deaf Children of Paris), a government-recognized and funded. . . + 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
Kevionn Woodard is Making History
Picture this. You’re ten years old. You just spent all day at basketball practice at your elementary school. You come home to your mom telling you the craziest news of your life. You’re the first Black Deaf actor to be nominated for an Emmy in the Guest Actor in a. . . + Read More