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

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

Blitz Spotlight: Helen Keller

Makenna Cook /

Helen Keller left a lasting impact on DeafBlind history. Born on June 27, 1880, in Tuscumbia, Alabama, Helen Keller’s life story is a story of the strong-willed human spirit. Despite being blind and deaf in the 1880s, she defied all odds and emerged as an influential figure in the fields. . . + Read More

Ableism & Deafness

Amy Lazzaretti /

In a world that prides itself on diversity and inclusion, the conversation around ableism is more crucial than ever. Ableism refers to discrimination and social prejudice against people with disabilities. It encompasses beliefs, attitudes, and practices that devalue individuals based on their perceived or actual abilities, ultimately contributing to the. . . + Read More

What is Deaf Awareness Week?

Amy Lazzaretti /

Deaf Awareness Week is an annual celebration that highlights the rich culture, achievements, and experiences of the Deaf community while promoting understanding and inclusion among hearing people. Understanding Deaf Culture The Deaf community has its own distinct: Common Misconceptions Important clarifications about deafness and Deaf culture: Ways to Promote Deaf. . . + Read More

Deaf Certified Interpreters

Amy Lazzaretti /

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