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
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
The Legacy of Martha’s Vineyard Sign Language
A village sign language once widely used on Martha’s Vineyard island from the early 1800s until 1952, Martha’s Vineyard Sign Language (MVSL) was utilized by both Deaf and hearing community members, so Deafness was not a barrier to public engagement.. . . + Read More
Why Learn from Deaf Teachers
In life, we encounter an array of perspectives that broaden our understanding. But one under appreciated fountain of wisdom exists within the Deaf community. As we strive for inclusivity and embrace different abilities, it’s vital we acknowledge the singular insights Deaf teachers provide. This blog unveils why learning from a. . . + Read More
Who was Andrew Foster?
Andrew Foster was a remarkable pioneer, who overcame both racial discrimination and societal limitations of deafness to become one of the most influential educators in African history. Born in 1925 in Ensley, Alabama, Foster lost his hearing at age 11 due to spinal meningitis. Despite facing the harsh realities of. . . + Read More
Super Bowl LVIII ASL Performers
The National Association of the Deaf has just announced the 2024 Super Bowl performers for Super Bowl LVIII. They are Daniel Durant, Anjel Piñero, and Shaheem Sanchez. Super Bowl LVIII will take place on February 11, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Academy Award winning actor Daniel Durant will perform the. . . + Read More
Holiday Movies Featuring ASL
The holiday season is a time for festive films that bring warmth and cheer. Among these, several movies stand out for their inclusion of American Sign Language (ASL), offering meaningful representation for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. Let’s explore a few of these films. 1. Santa Bootcamp (2022) “Santa Bootcamp”. . . + Read More
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
ASL Facts You May Not Know
American Sign Language is a beautiful language that is used by millions of Deaf people in America and Canada. It is a language that has been around for many years and continues to grow and change just like every other language. In this blog, I will be sharing some fun facts. . . + 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