WHEREAS, today marks the start of Deaf History Month, celebrated annually from March 13th through April 15th; and
WHEREAS, Deaf History Month, first introduced in 1997 by the National Association of the Deaf, highlights significant events that have impacted the deaf community over the course of history, including the opening of the American School, the first public school for the deaf and hard of hearing (April 15, 1817), the unveiling of Gallaudet University, the first secondary institution for the deaf and hard of hearing (April 8, 1864), and the nomination of Gallaudet’s first deaf president (March 13, 1988); and
WHEREAS, this month is a time to learn about and celebrate the incredible achievements of individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing, to continue raising awareness about the inequities faced by members of these communities, and to advocate for the rights of all deaf and hard of hearing persons; and
WHEREAS, Salt Lake City is grateful to be in partnership with organizations such as the Utah Association of the Deaf, Utah State Division of Services of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Jean Massieu School of the Deaf, and ASL interpreters Trenton Marsh and Clay Anderson and the countless other interpreters at ASL Communication that support and advocate for the rights of individuals who are deaf and hard-of-hearing every day; and
WHEREAS, Salt Lake City commends initiatives such as the Utah Deaf History & Culture project that create awareness of and provide education and resources for our residents who are deaf and hard of hearing; and
WHEREAS, we express our thanks and appreciation to Commissioner Pamela Mower who currently serves on the Salt Lake City Accessibility and Disability Commission. Your wisdom, advocation, and guidance help ensure that our services and programming are accessible and inclusive of our local deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Erin Mendenhall, Mayor of Salt Lake City, Utah, proclaim March 13th through April 15th
Deaf History Month in Salt Lake City
To view the electronically signed copy of the proclamation, click here.