April is Deaf History Month—a time to recognize and celebrate the history, culture, language, and contributions of the Deaf community.
This month marks key milestones in Deaf history, including the founding of schools for Deaf students and the ongoing advocacy that has advanced access, education, and civil rights. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of American Sign Language (ASL) as a rich and vital language, and to uplift Deaf voices, leadership, and lived experiences.
We’re proud to share this video created by Genesis Simpson, Independence Now’s Independent Living Services intern, highlighting the importance of awareness, communication access, and inclusion.
Deaf History Month is a reminder that true inclusion means ensuring equal access to information, services, and opportunities—so everyone can fully participate and thrive.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT: National Deaf History Month
A time to recognize Deaf community, culture and language.
Deaf people are not broken. They don’t need to be fixed.
We have our own language, ASL, our own culture and our own identity.
Access matters. Communication matters.
Small things matter. Face us. Make sure the lighting is good.
Don’t cover your mouth. If an interpreter is needed, provide one. Don’t ignore.
Deaf people can do anything, school, work, leadership, read, drive.
It’s not a limitation, it’s a different way of communicating.
This month, take time to learn, respect and support.
Deaf Awareness. Remember that!
For more info about Independence Now, go to www.innow.org.
Thank you!!
