Clerc-Gallaudet Week
Clerc-Gallaudet Week is a special time when people stop and recognize two key figures who changed Deaf education in America. Laurent Clerc and Thomas Gallaudet weren’t just teachers — they were trailblazers who believed every Deaf child deserved a chance to learn and be heard.
Celebrate Deaf education pioneers and accessibility by hosting inclusive community events and ASL learning experiences that build brand awareness among education and non-profit sectors.
- Host a beginner-friendly Sign Language Challenge to engage employees and community members
- Share accessible visual storytelling content featuring Deaf culture and role models
- Screen ASL-friendly films or clips with discussion panels featuring Deaf advocates
- Launch a community recognition campaign highlighting Deaf educators and leaders
Clerc‑Gallaudet Week began in the early 1970s as a way to honor contributions in Deaf culture. Colorado leaders David Anthony and Jerome Moers first launched a Deaf Awareness Week in 1972.
Soon after, the District of Columbia Public Library Office approved a national edition. They named December as the month to highlight Clerc and Gallaudet’s impact.
In December 1974, it truly took shape. The DC Executive Office declared the first Clerc‑Gallaudet Week, held the first full week of December.
Library staff, led by Deaf librarians Alice Hagemeyer and Ida Mapes, planned events in schools and community spaces. The effort also involved the National Association of the Deaf and local Deaf advocates.
Originally called Deaf Awareness Week, the name changed in 1989. Friends of Libraries for Deaf Action proposed Clerc‑Gallaudet Week to honor both founders.
They also set the dates from December 3 (International Day of Disabled Persons) to December 10 (Human Rights Day). That timing still stands.
Organizers aimed to uplift Deaf culture and show how powerful sign language can be. They invited public libraries to host programs, share books, and present cultural displays.
The week encourages sharing and learning in many local communities.
Today, Clerc‑Gallaudet Week helps people connect with Deaf history and find new ways to support sign language.
It grew from modest roots into a moment recognized nationwide. Many still mark it with stories, books, and community events all over.
Host a Sign‑Language Challenge
Invite family, friends, or coworkers to learn a few basic signs. Provide flashcards or a short video lesson. Keep the mood friendly and playful.
Share a Visual Storytime
Gather picture books about Deaf culture or accessible themes. Use signed narration or captions. Encourage sharing thoughts after the story.
Screen an ASL‑friendly Film or Clip
Choose a short, signed video or film with subtitles. Play it for a group. Offer a space for reaction and discussion.
Set Up a Local Exhibit
Display posters, photos, or quotes that highlight Deaf leaders. Use tactile items or QR codes to link to ASL resources. Invite people to browse.
Launch a Community Letter-Writing Project
Write thank-you notes to Deaf role models, educators, or advocates. Use simple sign art or decorative ASL alphabets. Drop letters off locally or mail them.