The 2019 Deaf Awareness Week is observed this year from September 23-27. This national time of recognition highlights the contributions, accomplishments, talents and abilities of persons who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing across the country.

The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) demonstrates our continued commitment to create an inclusive environment, promote employment and share our core value of believing in the talent and potential of individuals with disabilities by providing advocacy for communication access, Deaf Culture and American Sign Language (ASL) awareness, counseling, technical assistance, and various other services to promote the hiring, retention, and advancement of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals in the workforce. The DOR is dedicated to raising awareness to promote campaigns designed to advance employment and independent living for people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Late Deafened, and DeafBlind.

The DOR’s Central Office employees can learn more about Deaf Culture and ASL by visiting the free ASL Celebration today located on the north side of the State Capitol from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This popular and lively event is hosted by the California Association for the Deaf (CAD) and will feature guest speakers and booths for participants to explore. The DOR will be partaking in the event; come by and check out the DOR booth as well! Additionally, CAD is hosting a “Trio Event” in downtown Sacramento consisting of conferences and evening entertainment on September 12, 13, and 14. For additional information about these events, check out the CAD website. 

We encourage all DOR employees to participate in local events within the community to learn more about and honor Deaf Awareness Week.