As Black History Month wraps up, DEAF, Inc. takes a moment to share recognition for these movers and shakers in our community and their leadership as Black Deaf role models. Black History, especially Black Deaf history, continues to shape our society and move us forward in equity and accessibility for all Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and Late-Deafened people.
Year-round, we remember to cherish the contributions of various groups in our community. Hand waves for our Black Deaf pioneers who continue to make a difference and keep transforming Black History!
Andrew Foster: In 1954, Andrew became the first Deaf African American to earn a bachelor's degree from Gallaudet University and the first to earn a master's degree from Eastern Michigan University. Missionary to the deaf in Ghana, Rwanda. Known as the "Father of the Deaf" of Africa because Andrew founded the first school of the deaf there and went to establish 31 more.
Awet Moges: Black Deaf graphic novelist who created Pantheon: Heteropia
CJ Jones: First black deaf actor in an international blockbuster, played as Joseph in the 2017 summer hit "Baby Driver". Developed three one-man shows that have toured all over the world. Co-wrote and directed six classic fairy tales for children's television for the series "Once Upon a Sign" CJ is one of the subjects of "See What I'm Saying: The Deaf Entertainers" Documentary (2009).
Claudia Gordon: Recognized as one of former President Barack Obama's key advisors for disability issues. First female Deaf African American lawyer to graduate law school and pursue a career devoted to helping individuals with disabilities. Active in working to ensure the rights of people with disabilities are respected.
Curtis Pride: Pride became the first full-season deaf player in the modern era of Major League Baseball (the first deaf player in the majors since Dick Sipek in 1945). In 421 major league games, Pride compiled a .250 batting average with 20 home runs, 82 RBI's, and 29 stolen bases.
Dr. Carolyn McCaskill: Professor and Coordinator of the B.A. Deaf Studies Program at Gallaudet University. Advocates raising awareness about the Deaf Community and the Black Deaf Community among other multicultural topics. Co-author of a book/DVD "The Hidden Treasures of Black ASL: Its History and Structure" published May 2011.
Dr. Glenn Anderson: First African American alumnus of Gallaudet to earn a doctoral degree from New York University in 1982. First African American deaf person to be appointed as a Gallaudet trustee (1989). First deaf person hired by Michigan Rehabilitation Services to work as a Vocational Rehabilitation counselor (1970).
Dr. Nathine Marbury: Marbury became the first Black deaf woman to enter the National Leadership Training Program for the Deaf at California State University, Northridge. First Black deaf female instructor at the Kendall Demonstration Elementary for the Deaf, 1978 - 1986
Haben Girma: In 2013, Haben became the first DeafBlind person to graduate from Harvard Law School as a human rights lawyer advancing disability justice. President Obama named her as a White House Champion of Change. Haben believes disability is an opportunity for innovation and teaches organizations the importance of choosing inclusion. A former board member for DEAF, Inc.
Kenny Wayne Walker: Second deaf player to play NFL. Won Defensive player of the year in his freshman year at the University of Nebraska. First Black Deaf player to play at C.F.L.
Lauren Ridloff: Known as second woman of color to become Miss Deaf America (2000 - 2002) Deaf American actress known for her roles in the TV series "The Walking Dead" (portrayed as Connie) and the film Marvel's "Eternals" (portrayed as Makkari). First Black Deaf featured in toy figure of Marvel Legends. First Black Deaf featured in Funko Pop
Matt Maxey: Founder of DEAFinitely Dope, an organization that aims to bring the deaf and hearing communities together through music.
Ritchie Bryant: New president of the Board of Directors of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID). First Deaf and first Black Deaf president of RID organization.
Shawn Richardson: A renowned Black Deaf Cartoonist. Richardson created illustrations for a coloring & activity book called "Black Deaf Lives Matter". Exhibited his cartoons at Gallaudet University, California State University, Northridge, and Dyer Arts Center at NTID.
Warren "WAWA" Snipe: Deaf writer, rapper, and performer. Featured in the R&B artist Maxwell's "Fingers Crossed" lyric video and completed an album called "Deaf: So What". Founding member of the Wild Zappers, an all-male deaf dance company. Performed the American national anthem alongside ERic Church and Jazmine Sullivan at Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. Featured in CW tv series, Black Lighting.
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