Every year, the International Day of Sign Languages is celebrated on September 23 to recognize the vital role of sign languages in fostering communication and inclusion for Deaf, Hard of Hearing and all individuals.
Adriann (pictured on the right with her husband) is a Service Coordinator for Easterseals PORT Health’s EMPOWER program in New Bern, NC. From her beginnings as a Deaf/Hard of Hearing (D/HH) teacher to her current role, Adriann’s story highlights the profound impact sign language has had on her career and the lives of those around her. As a D/HH teacher in California, Adriann became close friends with a deaf colleague. Their frequent chats in a coffee shop inspired the baristas to learn ASL. Adriann recalls the moment when one barista successfully took her friend’s order in sign language. Since then, she has been passionate about encouraging others to learn ASL and hopes it becomes more widely used.
Adriann’s experience as a D/HH teacher greatly influences her work at EMPOWER New Bern. She believes that negative behaviors often stem from communication struggles and responds with patience and understanding. Adriann advocates for using ASL, even with those who aren’t deaf or hard of hearing, to ease communication, reduce sensory overload and assist clients with speech difficulties. The enthusiasm among her EMPOWER teammates to learn ASL has been particularly rewarding, with many seeking classes and resources to improve communication with clients. “You are never too old or too young to learn ASL,” says Adriann who hopes her story will motivate others to learn sign language.
Easterseals PORT Health is committed to IDEAL principles (Inclusive, Diverse, Equitable, Authentic and Learning). The IDEAL principle that resonates most with Adriann is Inclusion, as it perfectly aligns with her belief in the importance of including everyone in communication through sign language.
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Easterseals PORT Health is a trustworthy, compassionate partner providing exceptional disability, behavioral health and addiction treatment services to help our neighbors live their best lives. Purpose, dedication and empathy drive our in-person and telehealth service delivery. Our diverse and inclusive 2,600 member team provides more than 10.2 million hours of meaningful support to 40,200 kids, adults and families in 11,000 home, facility and community locations across North Carolina and Virginia. Learn more at eastersealsPORT.com.
