Every day in September C.A.N. is celebrating Deaf Awareness Month by featuring a Deaf/ASL organization. Our highlight for September 6 is #whyIsign founded by Stacy Abrams.
Considered as a movement more than an organization, #whyIsign was started by Stacy Abrams to support hearing families with deaf children. The goal was for families to see different stories and experiences being shared. That also includes the Deaf communities sharing their experiences and maybe some advice and tips. Hearing families can observe, learn, and come to the realization that their deaf child will grow up to be just fine. Support and resources from all over are also shared. The ultimate goal is for deaf children from all over to grow up and become successful in different ways.
The purpose of sharing #whyIsign narratives:
Families are still not given resources or support about including signing with their ddbddldhh children. Families often feel alone in their signing journey. For most, their baby is the first deaf person they meet. They often are nervous and scared to connect with the deaf community. Our diverse communities often desire to connect with hearing families, but lack knowledge of where families are & how to reach out Through sharing #whyIsign narratives, people can:
Connect with deaf & hard of hearing children to other families
Connect to DDBDDHHLD & the diverse communities within
Connect with the signing communities (CODA’s, students, friends, community members, etc.)
Share resources and information about resources of raising a deaf and hard of hearing child
- Understand that sign language is a right, not an option
Find out more at https://www.whyisign.com
Their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/whyisign
You can also support the #whyIsign movement by uploading your own #whyIsign video!