Two amazing Deaf-blind individuals introduce their new vlog series Pro-tactile. They discuss Deaf-blind culture and tactile ASL. [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l11lahuiHLA&feature=youtu.be[/youtube]
NEW ORLEANS, February 1, 2013 – The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) and PepsiCo are partnering up to expand the inclusivity of Super Bowl XLVII. PepsiCo has teamed up with NAD to bring John Maucere, an internationally renowned actor and performer, to New Orleans for a Super Bowl experience. John’s experience from his arrival in New Orleans to his signing of the National Anthem will be documented by NAD and PepsiCo through a short digital film that will be made available on www.nad.org and www.pepsico.com. Sneak peeks of John’s journey will be shared by NAD and PepsiCo through social media outlets such as Facebook and Twitter.
In a historic victory for deaf and hard of hearing truckers, the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) announced today, after decades of prohibition, that deaf drivers can operate commercial motor vehicles such as large trucks. Today, the DOT granted 40 applications filed by the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) seeking exemption from the hearing standard that has barred deaf drivers from obtaining commercial drivers’ licenses (CDLs). In announcing this historic decision, the DOT cited research demonstrating that deaf drivers are as safe as hearing drivers.
RID recently hired Shane Feldman as the new Executive Director. Below is his introduction.
Janet L. Bailey is retiring as the Government Affairs Program (GAP) representative.
The ABC show “Switched at Birth”, plans to release an episode completely in ASL. This will be the first prime time TV show to air such an episode. The storyline will be shown through the eyes of the Deaf characters and will provide open-captions for viewers who don’t know ASL. Deaf identity will be a major theme throughout the episode.
This article by Street Leverage discusses the use of the term “clients” by interpreters and how it contributes to oppression. I have never given much thought to the term “clients”. I have always used “consumer”, as that is the word used in my ITP and what I’ve seen as most standard in our profession. This article really caused me to think more carefully about the word choices we make and how they impact those we come into contact with through out work.
A group of Deaf-blind actors from Israel are bringing their performance to the U.S. They will be performing at New York University today. A great article by the New York Times describes the performance and the history behind it. 2 Senses Missing, 3 Others Step Up
A new app for children has recently been released. The app contains stories that are signed by Keith Wann and Wink. Read the article here.
Welcome back everyone! Hope you all had a relaxing winter break. Make sure to keep checking the workshop and events page! New stuff is added often. As always if you know of anything that should be added send me an e-mail!