The goals for this project are to provide statewide specialized deafblind communication training. This includes providing training in Protactile, Tactile Interpreting, DeafBlind interpreting, and working with speaking deafblind (who may or may not identify as DeafBlind).
This involves working with individuals who are deafblind, regardless of communication modalities used; ASL Interpreters; Interveners & SSPs; and others who serve individuals who are deafblind.
This retreat is for speaking deafblind. It is an opportunity for them to receive information customized to their needs, receive training in tools and technology to improve their quality of life, and connect with others who experience similar challenges in navigating a hearing-sighted world.
The retreat will take place the weekend of March 4-5, 2023. It will be held at the Best Western Plus Kelly Inn in St. Cloud, MN. Registration will open in early January 2023.
Once a month, the Minnesota Speaking DeafBlind Group (MSDBG) holds conference calls for speaking deafblind people. This is an opportunity to connect, share information and resources, and provide ongoing support to persons with combined vision and hearing loss who use spoken English as their primary language.
The DeafBlind 101 introductory training will provide training to interpreters, SSPs, and other direct service providers. Topics will include basic guiding, PT feedback, and an introduction to interpreting skills.
The training is tentatively planned for spring of 2023.
This grant is expected to last up to 5 years. In future years, we hope to host a range of trainings and events. Examples include: PT training, DeafBlind Advanced Training, and 1-on-1 DeafBlind Training Practice. This is not a guarantee that all of these things will happen; the list is just an example of things that ASLIS might do.
“DeafBlind” or “deafblind”? Which is it? It’s a complicated question!
For people who are deaf or hard of hearing, capitalization matters. “Little d” deaf simply denotes an audiological status – profound hearing loss. “Big D” Deaf is used for people who are deaf, use signed languages, and who identify with Deaf cultural norms and values.
Similarly, “deafblind” without capitalization is used to describe people with combined vision and hearing loss. The range of people is vast; some are partially sighted, some have usable residual hearing, some have no vision at all, and some are profoundly deaf. Some use ASL as their primary language, and others use spoken English.
With capitalization, “DeafBlind” refers to members of a cultural movement that promotes deafblind self-determination and engagement with their environment on their own terms. This includes resistance to the intersection of sighted and hearing oppressions, encouragement of a distinct DeafBlind identity, and a set of values that centers touch as the primary source of information about the world.
All Specialized Deafblind Training programs are provided by ASLIS and supported by grant funding from the Minnesota Department of Human Services: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division.
