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Embracing Inclusivity: Breaking Barriers in the Workplace

August 2nd, a date that marks the passing of yet another year in my life. As I celebrate my birthday, I can’t help but reflect on the things that remain unchanged over the years. One significant aspect that continues to persist is the barriers faced by disabled and deaf individuals in the workplace. Despite progress in various fields, some hiring practices still deny opportunities to those who communicate differently. It is disheartening to see that ignorance and misconceptions about disabilities still prevail. However, it is not a time to lose hope; change is possible, and it starts with raising awareness and providing the right training and knowledge to create an inclusive environment.

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Artistic Ice Cream Social with S5WAVES and Community Support

Last Saturday, S5WAVES – a local Kingston grassroots organization I founded reached a new milestone as we hosted our highly anticipated third Awesome Ice Cream Social. This year’s event was not only a delightful gathering but also an artistic showcase and a heartwarming display of community support. From the talents of four artists displaying their artwork to the captivating performances of two Kingston Circus Art performers and two Deaf storytellers, the Ice Cream Social became a resounding success that left us captivated and filled with gratitude.

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Priortize Deaf ASL Performers for the National Anthem

I express my concern and disappointment to the woman who perform the national anthem recently using ASL at a sporting event in the US. She has not been vetted or even have proper certification or training, which is disrespectful to the deaf and signing community.

Culture appropriation is a serious issue that can cause harm and offense to marginalize communities.

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Meat and Bread

I want to talk about after the conference when my husband and I explored Vancouver downtown. We decided to have lunch, discovered a unique simple business name display and was intrigued by their menu. Meat & Bread on Robson street. We were looking forward to a sandwich which sold out with the people before us. A nice man named Colin appeared and started signing to the best of his ability. Explaining what was available.

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Translating Music in Sign Language

Have you been following all the news on Justina Miles? Everyone is stunned by her performance as I am to Rihanna’s songs. The first Black female SuperBowl halftime ASL performer did amazing and garnered lots of media attention that she deserves.

Like all languages, American Sign Language (ASL) is a means of communication but also a means of art expression. Music is inclusive and it is meant for everyone to enjoy. Yes, we do enjoy music! There is absolutely no reason to deprive Deaf people from experiencing a good time. We are always pushing for access. Three different roles play this out to give us, the Deaf community, an experience.

Read more about the differences of ASL interpreter, ASL performer and ASL artists.

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2022 Message

Hello, I am wrapping up the year 2022 this week for a much needed two week tech free holiday to spend time with cherished family and friends.

Funny how it seemed only yesterday that I retreated to reflect on the year 2021. I treasure this time of the year because it gives me a rare opportunity to conduct an inventory of my motivations and values; my relationship with my family, friends, and colleagues; and, my work. But, it is also a time to assess my learning curve and to identify areas of improvement. I cherish the moment because it is the time of the year when I get to compose my year-end review of the year, not just a catalogue of the chronology of my activities, but also my heart and my business soul.

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Access at the theatre

You never know what’s going to happen until you ask.
Few weeks back I wanted to treat my husband to a comedy for his birthday and saw that the Kingston Grand Theatre was having a show that looked intriguing. One problem, I wanted to be able to enjoy the show too! I emailed the theatre to ask if interpreters can be provided knowing how short notice it was. 

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Sticky Situations in Hospitals

Have you ever seen Squid Game? Do you remember the dalgona cookie challenge? How each player had to patiently and methodically lick or prick their way against the countdown before they were eliminated for good? Can you imagine being trapped in a life-threatening situation forced to play a game that may determine whether they survive?

Deaf and Hard of Hearing patients often end up in situations like these, where they are trapped by necessity and circumstance. They show up to the emergency room or to their doctor’s office and are not provided the communication access they need so they can discuss their needs or decisions, often leading to miscommunication, misdiagnosis and mistreatment. 

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Amazing Race Canada

Screenshot image of woman pointing at ASL alphabet chart on tv

Did you watch The Amazing Race Canada Tuesday evening???
Did you see biggest secret I kept since April, the race occurred at my old alumni Sir James Whitney School for the Deaf (SJW) in Belleville, Ontario. The show used my ASL alphabet chart!!! I am so honoured to have my illustrations with my logo displayed on the amazing show.