For Deaf Awareness Week (March 22–28), the Deaf Redbirds Association (DRA) invites the Illinois State campus and Bloomington-Normal communities to participate in several events designed to connect people with the deaf and hard of hearing community and culture.
Visit DRA Deaf Awareness Week for complete details!
Deaf and hard of hearing information booths
Monday, March 23 through Wednesday, March 25, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Schroeder Plaza
Stop by DRA’s booths to learn about deaf and hard of hearing culture, opportunities to get involved, and gain some fast facts. For example, did you know men are more likely than women to report having hearing loss? Or what about this: One in eight people in the U.S. (30 million) 12 years or older has hearing loss in both ears, based on standard hearing examinations.
Flashmobs
Monday March 23 and Wednesday, March 25, 3:20 p.m. on Schroeder Plaza
So, it’s not a true flashmob since the organization has released the time and date in advance, but this performance will change the way people think of American Sign Language (ASL). Hundreds of hours went into preparing for these flashmobs. Don’t miss this!
Communication panel
Thursday, March 26, 6 p.m. in the Caterpillar Room, State Farm Hall of Business
Not everyone who is deaf or hard of hearing communicates using sign language. Five deaf and/or hard of hearing individuals will talk about the rather different ways they communicate with the outside world. The event is a great opportunity for future educators to gain perspective on engaging students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Silent Dinner Night
Friday March 27, 5 p.m. at Noodles and Company (Normal)
Join DRA and the Bloomington-Normal Deaf Club for a great night of good food, conversation in ASL, and to cap a great week dedicated to the deaf and hard of hearing community.
