NAD Attends Audism Free America Rally

 The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) joined the Audism Free America rally on July 22, 2011 against the exclusive use of spoken and listening language by deaf and hard of hearing children. The NAD strongly believes that every deaf and hard of hearing person has the right to learn through visual means and to express themselves in American Sign Language (ASL) and English.

"It is imperative that all deaf children grow up with and benefit from American Sign Language in their education, as well as in their social and identity development," said NAD President Bobbie Beth Scoggins. "Our mission, vision and values are strong and consistent with what AFA is trying to do. We look forward to continuing our mutual advocacy on this issue with Audism Free America and other groups who support these goals."

The peaceful rally included deaf and hard of hearing people who wished to share their harrowing experiences with an approach that utilizes only speaking and listening. Only later in life did these people connect with the vibrant deaf and hard of hearing community and learn ASL.