Jonathan O’Dell the Assistive Technology and Training Specialist for the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing presented an informative session on deaf culture and essential communication strategies for in and out of work. The presentation was held in the Stoughton office Suffolk room on April 25th 2024.
“There is no one way to be Deaf, just as there is no one way to be hearing,” said O’Dell. “We are all different and should all be accepted on our own merits.”
On a Thursday afternoon O’Dell spoke to Tempus on what it means to be culturally deaf and the dangers of audism. People who identify as culturally deaf come from an environment where American Sign Language (ASL) is the primary form of communication and should be treated the same as any other language and culture. While Audism is the inherent prejudice the deaf community face.
He emphasized the importance of ASL interpreters and using a Certified Deaf Interpreter as a primary method of communication.
The session covered an array of topics with detailed information and statistics on what it means to deaf and some of the adversity they face on daily basis.
Tempus welcomed the information and its new ways of implementation while showing an adept understanding on the subject. Impressing O’Dell as he give praise to Tempus for creating an inclusive workspace.
For more information or to schedule a session contact Johnathan O’Dell at [email protected]”