The holiday season is upon us and with it the challenge of gift-giving! This winter many of us are facing inflation and economic uncertainty, and are concerned with contributing to corporate profits. If you have the means, consider shopping within our deaf community by choosing a gift from one of the small businesses listed below. For even more gift ideas, take a peek at lists from previous years, linked at the bottom of this page.
Want to get someone in your life something that is also a bit nostalgic? Look no further than Raine Collective’s shirt collection. Whether it’s “Bye SKSK” or the word “Deaf” designed to look like the ILY handshape, these shirts will be a hit for the deaf community member on your gift list!
2. Deaf Culture/C/koda books
There is nothing like a good book! Snap up one of these for a reader on your list! Need a bit of fiction? True Biz is a novel by deaf author Sara Novic that features a coda character! The Deaf Culture Coloring Book and pop-up book How Much Do You Know About Deaf Culture are great for the little ones, especially for starting conversations about deaf culture! Want to explore more about the Coda experience? Check out memoirs, Paris in America and Children of Deaf Adults!
True Biz, Deaf culture coloring book, How much do you know about deaf culture, Paris in America, Children of deaf adults (Korea)
Check out these awesome t-shirts and hoodies from Deaf Mainstreet- a non-profit that is dedicated to the formation, growth, and success of Deaf-owned businesses. They have a variety of printable products from onesies to coffee mugs. With both English and ASL fingerspelling incorporated into one image, this would be a great gift for a koda or coda!
4. Dog Training
Do you have a new canine family member that could benefit from some training? Check out these two dog trainers that offer bilingual services in ASL and English. They offer sessions that are in-person or remote! Savvy Dog training is run by coda Savannah LeFores and Deaf trainer/behaviorist Leah Bornstein at Born to be dog training.
5. Codadet
Codadet is a student organization at Gallaudet University in Washington DC that is currently hosting a virtual fundraiser- selling t-shirts with the Codadet logo on the front and Gallaudet bison on the back. All proceeds from the sales will go to various koda camps in the US! They are available in various colors- jump over to their site to pick one out!
Did you know that sweet treats are even sweeter when they’re made by codas? Edgar’s Bakery sells everything from breakfast to sandwiches and soups to cakes! Don’t worry if you can’t stop into their Alabama bakery, They will even ship cakes nationwide! Pop into Goldbelly to place an order and support a coda bakery!
It’s all about the vibes- snag one of these Deaf/ASL vibe shirts designed by Douglas Ridloff ASL storyteller/ consultant. Each print comes in a variety of styles and colors for both t-shirts and sweatshirts. If you’re lucky- you’ll be able to grab a cap before they are sold out!
8. Iza design
From apparel to art prints and stickers, this shop run by Deaf Latina graphic artist, Isabel Lainez, features gorgeous designs that combine the mystical and the natural. Her colorful drawings honor both Latina/o figures as well as sign language as the beautifully drawn figures sign a variety of words in ASL. Stop by her website to snag a print or two!
Got an astrology lover on your list? Look no further: Cosmic Sobbing has an array of zodiac-themed shirts perfect for anyone on their astrology journey! Created by Deaf photographer Tate Tullier began his adventures in astrology during the pandemic and he created this fun, interconnectedness, “great conversation starter” clothing line!
10. Gift Cards
Looking for a unique and meaningful self-improvement gift- here are some great options for self-growth! The Coda Network offers coaching, live webinars, and even on-demand workshops designed specifically for codas! ML Ruiz-Williams, Certified Reiki Master Teacher (CRMT) also known as the Radical Alchemist offers all-inclusive sessions both in-person or virtually, check out his Instagram for information about breath work, cards, stones, as well as his work at Disruptive Ink Tattoos! National Deaf Therapy offers full-service support, partnering in your healing journey. Their website offers a list of providers to choose from as well as wellness packages that address various personal growth topics.
* All of the information above can be found online; KODAheart is not liable for any issues with vendors. KODAheart did not receive payment or compensation from the businesses listed, all information is shared solely to encourage patronage of Deaf Community entrepreneurs. Store links are valid at the time of posting. Sellers are encouraged to share updated contact information with us.
Past KODAheart Gift Lists:
2022 | 2021 |
2020 | 2019 |
2018 | 2017 |
2016 | 2015 |