Every April since 2022, Deaf History Month has been recognized as a full month of celebration, reflection, and awareness. It is a time to uplift Deaf voices, recognize the richness of Deaf Culture, and highlight the importance of language, access, and community. Throughout this month, we have an opportunity to learn more about the history behind Deaf advocacy, the people who have shaped it, and the ways we can all contribute to a more inclusive future.

The History Behind Deaf History Month

Deaf History Month was originally observed from March 13 to April 15, centered around three key milestones:

March 13, 1988: The Deaf President Now Movement.

April 8, 1864: The founding of Gallaudet University, the first university for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students in the world.

April 15, 1817: The first establishment of the American School for the Deaf in Hartford, Connecticut, the first permanent public school for the Deaf in the United States, opens.

Today, Deaf History Month is recognized throughout April, creating more spaces to reflect on these milestones and continue building awareness.

Why Deaf History Matters

Deaf History Month is not only about recognizing the past but also understanding the present.

The Deaf community has historically faced barriers to communication, education, and employment due to limited accessibility. At the same time, the Deaf community has built a strong and vibrant culture, with American Sign Language (ASL) at its core.
ASL is more than a communication method. It is a complete language that carries identity, connection, and the promise of equitable communities.

Centering People and Community

This month highlights the many contributions of Deaf individuals across all areas of society. From pioneers like Laurent Clerc to advocates and artists like Marlee Martin. Deaf leaders have helped shape education, media, and civil rights like Hellen Keller.

Beyond these well-known figures, Deaf History is also carried out by individuals whose work continues to shape the community today.

Laurent Clerc: A Deaf Educator who helped establish Deaf Education in America and co-founded the first permanent school for the Deaf in America.

Hellen Keller: A DeafBlind author, activist, and lecturer who became a global symbol for disability advocacy and education rights.

Marlee Martin: An Oscar award-winning actress and advocate who broke barriers for Deaf representation in film and television.

Nyle DiMarco: The first deaf winner, model of “America’s Next Top Model” and “Dancing with the Stars, “and advocate using his platform to promote Deaf Rights and ASL visibility.

These individuals broke barriers, removed stereotypes, and created a path for others to do the same. Many more leaders, educators, artists, and community members continue to shape Deaf culture and push for access and inclusion today.

Ways to engage and support

The Center for Disability Rights plays an important role in advancing accessibility and ensuring that Deaf and other Disabled communities have access to services, information, and community-based support. Through our Deaf and DeafBlind services, we work to strengthen communication access and connect individuals to resources that support independence and inclusion.

Rochester, NY, is also home to the National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID), a college within the Rochester Institute of Technology dedicated to Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. NTID regularly hosts community events, educational programs, and cultural events that help.

More information and upcoming events can be found on the NTID website: NTID Site

During Deaf History Month, there are many ways individuals and organizations can take part:

• Learn and use basic ASL to support inclusive communication.
• Support Deaf-owned Businesses and creators.
• Attend Deaf community events, workshops, or panels.
• Advocate for Accessibility in workplaces, schools, and public services.
• Share and uplift Deaf stories and perspectives.

Meaningful engagement goes beyond awareness and continues through ongoing action, access, and community support.

Moving Forward

As we honor the history and contributions of the Deaf community, we are also called to consider how we can remove barriers and support accessibility, not just in April, but every day.

What actions will you take to support ASL access and Deaf-led spaces in your community?