Through Deaf Eyes, By Lawrence Hott And Diane Garey

Through Deaf Eyes," a documentary by Lawrence Hott and Diane Garey, takes us on a fascinating journey into Deaf culture and history. It really opens your eyes to the unique experiences and challenges that Deaf people in the U.S. face. In this essay, I'll share what I learned about Deaf culture and history, how Deaf people are often misunderstood, and how the community has fought to be recognized and respected. I'll also highlight some specific examples from the film featuring C.J. Jones, James E. Tucker, Marlee Matlin, and Carolyn McCaskill. Deaf Culture and History The film does a fantastic job showing the richness of Deaf culture, especially the importance of American Sign Language (ASL). ASL isn’t just about hand gestures; it’s a full language

Jones talks about growing up in a Deaf family, where ASL was more than just a way to communicate—it was a big part of his cultural identity. The film also dives into the historical debate between oralism and manualism in Deaf education. Oralism is about teaching Deaf people to speak and lip-read, often ignoring sign language, while manualism supports using sign language in education. James E. Tucker, the superintendent of the Maryland School for the Deaf, discusses how the 1880 Milan Conference pushed for oralism, leading to less use of sign language in schools. Tucker's insights highlight how this decision negatively impacted Deaf education and culture for a long time. Another key historical moment the film covers is the 1988 Deaf President Now (DPN) movement at Gallaudet University. Marlee Matlin, a famous Deaf actress and activist, shares her perspective on this event. The students' successful protest for a Deaf president was a huge win for Deaf empowerment and self-determination. Matlin's account emphasizes this event's emotional and political importance, showing why Deaf leadership and representation matter so

Despite these challenges, she became an Academy Award-winning actress, proving that Deaf people can achieve great success. On the flip side, Deaf individuals see themselves as part of a vibrant, capable, and resilient community. They’re proud of their identity and culture, seeing Deafness not as a disability but as a different way of experiencing the world. Carolyn McCaskill, a professor at Gallaudet University, shares her story of growing up as a Black Deaf woman in the segregated South. Her narrative highlights the strength and resilience of the Deaf community, as well as the intersectionality of race and Deafness. McCaskill’s story is a great example of how Deaf individuals overcome societal barriers and stereotypes to lead fulfilling lives. Advocacy and Recognition The Deaf community has a long history of advocating for their rights and recognition. Schools like the American School for the Deaf and Gallaudet University have been crucial in providing education and fostering a sense of community. These institutions promote ASL and Deaf culture, empowering Deaf individuals to pursue their