The National Organization: Deaf Women United, Inc.

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The national organization, Deaf Women United, Inc., was founded 39 years ago in 1985. The organization’s purpose is to empower and serve Deaf women via “advocacy, education, and outreach” (Deaf Women United, n.d.). By using those methods, the Deaf women involved can utilize this community to connect with one another, especially since Deaf communities are scattered throughout the country. Deaf Women United wants to play a powerful, supportive role for Deaf women; it intends to achieve this goal by assisting these women in any way possible. There is a heavy emphasis on supporting one another – whether in identity, lifestyle, accomplishment, or contribution. One fact I decided to further pursue while researching this organization was a persistent trait in the Deaf community: collectivism. As the Deaf Women United website …show more content…

Deaf culture is a minority in America, as pointed out by Professors Siple, Greer, and Holcomb, “[The Deaf community] have their own culture and at the same time live and work within the dominant American culture” (2003). The fact that this community is a linguistic minority accentuates the need for unity and connectedness between the members. Deaf people share a common culture, which involves their identity, language, and traditions – this cultural identity creates a sense of inclusion and acceptance. Members of this community “celebrate and cherish their culture because it gives them a unique privilege of sharing a common history and language” (Siple et al, 2003). Thus, they readily pursue other Deaf people and participate in cultural activities and events. My opinion on the topic of the Deaf Women United organization’s purpose and the importance of unity in the Deaf community is that I agree with it all. I believe that creating an environment where Deaf people feel welcome, feel like they belong, and feel empowered is highly

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