Last week, I had the privilege of meeting with LaShawn Washington, a Case Manager for the Deaf who previously worked for the Montgomery Regional Center for 3 years before transferring to the Birmingham Regional Center last month, with Beverly Bowndes serving as interpreter. Both LaShawn and Beverly represent the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind. Together, they shed light on the significance of the upcoming International Day of Sign Languages on September 23rd and how we can better support the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community in Birmingham.
LaShawn has been a Case Manager for the Deaf for three years, after transitioning from her role as an Independent Living Skills Instructor at E.H.Gentry, also with the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind. Her work involves providing essential resources and advocacy to the Deaf community in Birmingham. Many of her consumers face challenges with life skills and are often behind due to language deprivation. A key part of her role is to bridge that gap by connecting them with resources and advocating for equal opportunities, such as open captions on movie screens in Birmingham.
LaShawn highlighted two major challenges that individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing regularly face: employment and access to equal communication. For instance, many agencies fail to provide interpreters, which limits the ability of Deaf individuals to participate fully in society. Equal access to communication is critical, and interpreters are central to ensuring that Deaf individuals can navigate everyday tasks and opportunities.
When asked about the importance of International Day of Sign Languages, LaShawn expressed that this day is “crucial” to the Deaf community. “Sign language is not just a series of beautiful movements; it is how we communicate, how we express ourselves,” she explained. For her and the community she serves, it is a day to raise awareness and celebrate the unique culture and language of the Deaf.
When asked what key messages should be shared on social media, LaShawn suggested highlighting the uniqueness of each Deaf person while stressing the shared desires for respect and opportunity. “We want people to know that Deaf people are not all the same. We have our own individual needs and wants. Please don’t feel sorry for us—we can do everything hearing people do except hear. Respect us and our language. Give us opportunities to do more,” she shared.
Lastly, LaShawn shared a moving message about the beautiful storytelling elements of sign language and how it brings the Deaf community together. “It’s a beautiful language, and we want people to meet us halfway—get an interpreter, and learn a bit about our culture,” she said.
As we prepare to celebrate International Day of Sign Languages on September 23rd, let’s take the time to amplify these important voices and share their stories. Let’s ensure that Deaf individuals are given the respect and opportunities they deserve, not just on this day, but every day.
