Deaf NYC: Signs of Change

FAIN: ZH-252962-17

Gallaudet University (Washington, DC 20002-3600)
Brian Greenwald (Project Director: May 2016 to May 2024)

Deaf NYC: Signs of Change, a project that creates, collects, and researches filmed oral histories of and with some of New York City’s senior deaf community.

Gallaudet University’s Center for Deaf Documentary Studies project: Deaf NYC: Signs of Change will create new primary source material on urban Deaf life and, through public events, encourage civic discourse on Deaf and hearing connections. The physical, cultural and linguistic human difference of being deaf within an urban neighborhood offers a distinct opportunity to see common histories and diverse perspectives on living. Deaf communities historically faced challenges related to education, access and attitude; they have been economically disadvantaged due to employment barriers that impacted their ability to thrive. Through research, public events, and filmed interviews, this project will look at the ways urban Deaf experience is different from that of other Deaf groups, as well as how it aligns and diverges from hearing NYC communities.

Associated Products

Deaf NYC: Apart + Connected (Public Lecture or Presentation)
Title: Deaf NYC: Apart + Connected
Abstract: How has life changed during this pandemic for the NYC Deaf community? When everyone wears face masks, how does that affect interactions? When is information fully accessible and how can communication be better? Are there signs that are new, or signs that have taken on new meaning? Are there ways that Deaf cultural life is uniquely helpful during this time?
Author: Brianna DiGiovanni, moderator
Date: 05/12/2020
Location: New York City & Zoom
Primary URL: http://https://www.gallaudet.edu/drs-john-s-and-betty-j-schuchman-deaf-documentary-center/projects/deaf-nyc/apart-and-connected
Primary URL Description: Zoom recording of the 1-hour panel

Deaf NYC at Lexington (Public Lecture or Presentation)
Title: Deaf NYC at Lexington
Abstract: Panel discussion with alumni from New York School for the Deaf. How has technology transformed their lives growing up? What does it mean to be from a multigenerational Deaf family? What does being a Deaf New Yorker mean?
Author: Brian Greenwald, Jean Bergey
Date: 03/22/2019
Location: Lexington School for the Deaf, New York City

Deaf NYC StoryMaps (Exhibition)
Title: Deaf NYC StoryMaps
Curator: Brianna DiGiovanni
Abstract: This StoryMap is an interactive site that shows images and videos that relate to certain Deaf spaces. This NYC StoryMap has layers - one for clubs, schools, Deaf gathering sites, and religious/cultural groups, all relating to Deaf spaces. Deaf NYC Spaces in each layer change over time as Deaf groups move to a new location or close down the organization. The history of Deaf life in NYC is fascinating and complex. By studying Deaf spaces we can better understand the stories of Deaf people from NYC and also New York City's ever-changing landscape.
Year: 2021
Primary URL: https://arcg.is/049fen
Primary URL Description: The link goes to the StoryMaps of Deaf NYC.

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