DeafBlind Awareness Week
Promoting understanding and support for those with dual sensory loss fosters inclusion, empowerment, and community connection.
Position your organization as an inclusive employer and community partner by highlighting support for DeafBlind individuals and accessibility initiatives during awareness week.
- Feature employee spotlights or customer stories celebrating DeafBlind achievements and resilience
- Share accessibility best practices and resources for hiring/supporting DeafBlind professionals
- Partner with DeafBlind advocacy organizations for co-branded awareness content or fundraising campaigns
- Highlight your organization's commitment to inclusive design and sensory-accessible services
DeafBlind Awareness Week got its start at least four decades ago when it was declared by US President Ronald Reagan, through a presidential proclamation in 1984. The event was founded as a national advocacy campaign with the purpose of increasing public knowledge and drawing attention to the achievements of deaf-blind people, as well as raising support for the special needs of the people in this community.
DeafBlind Awareness Week takes place during the last week of June, with a nod to Helen Keller, the famous American activist who was both deaf and blind, and whose birthday falls on June 27. The organizers of this event work to promote a better understanding of the challenges that deafblind individuals face, and also celebrate the different ways that contribute to society.
Look Into Resources for DeafBlind Families
Families or community members who know a person who lives with DeafBlindness can check into various resources that are available specifically for this condition. Or, some people may be interested in becoming an expert teacher, therapist or other part of the team of people who work with those who are DeafBlind, and these resources may help with research and the pursuit of this education. National Family Association for DeafBlindHelen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youth and Adults (HKNC)National Center on DeafBlindnessSense (UK)
Support a DeafBlind Charity
Those who don’t personally know a person who is DeafBlind can still participate by making a contribution to one of the charities that works to support those who live with and overcome the obstacles of being both hearing and vision impaired. Check out the links above to find ways to get involved through making a donation or to act as a volunteer.
Get Inspired By DeafBlind People
Arguably the most famous DeafBlind person in the world, Helen Keller made an impact on society in a huge range of ways, in spite of the challenges and obstacles she faced. Those who are interested in knowing more of her story can do so by watching one of the versions of the films (The Miracle Worker – 1962 and 2000) made about her life and her helper, Annie Sullivan. Another person who might be inspiring is Haben Girma, who was the first DeafBlnd person to graduate from Harvard Law School. With a family background in wartorn Eritrea, Girma became a disability justice lawyer and advocate. Describing her disability as an opportunity for innovation, Girma’s autobiography is titled Haben: The Deafblind Woman Who Conquered Harvard Law.