Difference Between ASL, PSE, and SEE

Makenna Cook /

When you start learning American Sign Language (ASL), you might hear people talking about SEE or PSE too. What are those? Aren’t they the same thing as ASL? The answer is no. There are actually three different signing styles you may see in classrooms or in Deaf spaces: Signed Exact. . . + Read More

Marlee Matlin’s Not Alone Anymore Documentary

Makenna Cook /

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”

Makenna Cook /

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?

Amy Lazzaretti /

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

The World’s First Public Deaf School

Amy Lazzaretti /

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

Deaf Culture Books for Children

Amy Lazzaretti /

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

Makenna Cook /

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

What is the ADA and How Does it Support Deaf People?

Amy Lazzaretti /

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) serves as a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities, including members of the Deaf community. Enacted in 1990, this comprehensive legislation ensures equal access and opportunities across multiple aspects of daily life. Key Protections for Deaf Individuals Employment (Title. . . + Read More

Why are Deaf Studies & Interpreter Programs Important?

Amy Lazzaretti /

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?

Amy Lazzaretti /

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