Celebrate National Deaf History Month
April is National Deaf History Month!
National Deaf History Month is observed from April 1st to April 30th and celebrates the history, culture, and contributions of deaf and hard of hearing individuals. The reason National Deaf History Month is celebrated in April is because it marks the opening of the first permanent school for the deaf in the United States. The American School for the Deaf was built on April 15th, 1817 in Hartford, Connecticut. This institution provided an education system tailored to the needs of deaf students, creating a way for the recognition and advancement of Deaf culture and rights. Laurent Clerc and Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet were educators that played an important role in establishing the American School for the Deaf. National Deaf History Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the history and progression of the deaf and hard of hearing community.
Throughout National Deaf History Month, there are events, initiatives, and educational programs that are organized to highlight the Deaf culture and history. A fundamental of Deaf culture is American Sign Language (ASL), a visual language that is a form of communication for many deaf individuals. ASL is a tool for communication and form of expression for individuals experiencing hearing loss. National Deaf History Month serves as a platform to recognize the ongoing efforts to promote deaf rights and inclusion, advocating for equal access to education, employment, and the recognition of ASL as a language. Celebrate National Deaf History Month by honoring its past, celebrating its present, and advocating for its future, to help ensure a more accessible society for all.
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