THIS IS THE MAIN PAGE OF "DEAF-BLIND AWARENESS WEEK 2008"

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As the result of a Presidential Proclamation in 1984, the week of June 27th (Helen Keller's birthday) has been designated Helen Keller Deaf-Blind Awareness Week. Every year, HKNC celebrates this anniversary with a campaign highlighting a particular aspect of deaf-blindness.

The theme for 2008 is "Technology." Before technology was available, there were few communication options for people who were deaf-blind. Choices were limited to fingerspelling, sign language, speech, Print on Palm, the Tellatouch (for those who used braille) and the Alphabet Glove, to name a few. For distance communication, those with low vision might use a TTY with large print display or braille readers might have a TTY with a braille printout.  Technology was cumbersome, expensive and, largely, not portable.

Modern technology for tech savvy deaf-blind people includes computers with screen reading software, screen magnification software, closed circuit televisions and portable communication devices that mediate communication between deaf-blind braille readers and the sighted/hearing public. There are even ways to read global positioning systems via a laptop and a refreshable braille display.  Technology is clearly opening doors and improving the quality of lives of many people who are deaf-blind.

2008 Deaf-Blind Awareness Week Materials:

Friend and Colleague Letter

Proclamation

Press Release

Suggested Activities

Public Service Announcement

To receive a hard copy of the 2008 Deaf-Blind Awareness Week poster (size 11"x17"), to get a Deaf-Blind Awareness Week packet, or to be put on the mailing list, contact the Development Department at development@hknc.org or call 516-944-8900 ext 254.

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For more information, contact:

Information Services

516-944-8900 ext 253 voice/TTY

E-mail: hkncinfo@hknc.org

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