In America , we have equality rights enforced for people with disabilities. Inclusiveness and accessibility is a norm of our Education , Medical and Judicial Systems. American, Land of the Free echoes loudly when in a developing country.
Deaf Empowerment Abroad Foundation is a 501 c 3 which recognizes the social responsibility for a global movement towards accessibility and inclusion of Deaf and HoH in education and society through advocacy and awareness .
Our efforts are focused on the Deaf community of Jamaica. You know the place; the island that has long been a jewel in the Caribbean! Its lush topography of mountains, rain forests and reef lined beaches, along with beautiful colonial architecture, renowned for diving and snorkeling in the emerald green waters, and of course, the birth place of reggae and Jerk chicken!
What you don't know: it is also the home of approximately 7,500 Deaf and Hard of Hearing Jamaicans. For generations Deaf Jamaicans were isolated from their hearing peers, forced to reside in designated "Deaf Communities" pushed aside, shunned, or forgotten; the Deaf were provided little to no educational opportunities or life skills training. Although the perception of many "Handicapped" people unable to make a worthwhile contribution has largely change, the Deaf population has been left behind. Therefore, these individuals do not have a level of independence they deserve.
Imagine being in the hospital with no communication, not knowing what was being done to you or why. Only to be restrained to the bed, because your attempts at voicing communication were seen as violent or crazy. Imagine being arrested and going to court with not understanding a single word. Imagine sitting in a classroom with no access to the education , because the teacher refuses to teach in your native language.
This is the day to day existence if you are Deaf in Jamaica.
recent laws were implemented but are not being enforced due to a lack of advocacy, training and accountability.
Deaf Empowerment Abroad Foundation is working together with leading Deaf community members and organizations in Jamaica to break the silence and give a voice to the Deaf population. Empowering the Deaf youth, developing curriculums and retooling hearing teachers. Moving forward for equality, accessibility and sustainability. All efforts thus far have been 100% volunteer funded . The hopes in receiving funds will provide us the means to achieve our goals in a much more affective and timely manner.
To learn more about the advancement of Deaf lives in Jamaica , please visit www.D-E-A-F.org and follow us on our Instagram page at deafempowermentaf . Together we can "Break the Silence."
Warmest regards,
Diane Black
Founder, Deaf Empowerment Abroad Foundation
www.D-E-A-F.org
Review from #MyGivingStory