Each year, in honor of leading humanitarian, author, and educator Helen Keller, and in recognition of the achievements of people who have both vision and hearing loss, the last week of June is commemorated as DeafBlind Awareness Week. The work of Keller, who was deafblind, “made a big difference in the lives of deafblind people.” In 1984, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the last week beginning on June 24th as “Helen Keller Deaf-Blind Awareness Week.” Each year since then this commemoration has taken place to increase awareness and “celebrate all those who promote literacy for children who have a combined vision and hearing loss.” The effects of deafblindness can vary widely, depending on factors like whether the individual can read print and utilize speech to communicate. Some of those who are deafblind have other disabilities as well. To help determine the impact of combined vision and hearing loss, it is important to know if the individual has any vision or hearing, whether the conditions are progressive, and medical and other conditions or disabilities that affect learning. A number of resources are available to increase awareness and celebrate Deafblind Awareness Week. The Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths and Adults (HKNC) offers a poster, available in print and audio, featuring a former participant in their programs, showing a young graduate who is considering her opportunities for the future, such as becoming a teacher, traveling, starting a family, higher education, and owning a home. While individual journeys may be different, “our aspirations unite us.” HKNC provides a Learning Center with resources on “DeafBlind Culture,” “Guidelines for Respectful Interactions with DeafBlind Individuals,” and more as well as a campaign graphic for social media, success stories, and other offerings. Learn more about HKNC, the “only national agency” providing information, referrals, support, and a vocational and rehabilitation program to DeafBlind youths and adults, on their webpage for DeafBlind Awareness Week 2024. Find additional information about the commemoration on the Paths to Literacy webpage about “Celebrating Deafblind Awareness Week” and the National Today listing for DeafBlind Awareness Week.
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