International Week of the Deaf 2018

During the last week in September communities across the US and around the world come together to celebrate the International Week of the Deaf (also known as Deaf Awareness Week). It is a time to recognize the languages, cultures, and experiences of deaf and hard of hearing people. This year’s theme ” With Sign Language,… Continue Reading International Week of the Deaf 2018

10 Coda Artists to Explore

  In Deaf Artists in America, Deborah M. Sonnenstrahl wrote, “There have always been American artists who are deaf… Their lives and their works offer us a glimpse into their respective worlds and invite us to broaden our understanding of the complex tapestry that is life and art.” [pg xv]  Much like Deaf artists, through… Continue Reading 10 Coda Artists to Explore

Shirley Childress (1947-2017)

Dr. Shirley Childress, known as the “Mother of Songs Sung”, worked tirelessly as an interpreter and advocate for the Deaf community. Shirley was born in 1947 to Herbert  and Thomasina Childress in Washington D.C. Her father, Herbert became deaf at 6 years old from spinal meningitis. He attended the Tennessee School for the Colored Deaf… Continue Reading Shirley Childress (1947-2017)

Mother Father Deaf Day 2018

  The last Sunday in April is Mother Father Deaf Day, an international holiday designated to celebrate deaf parents- Each year it is our goal to engage the community via social media, following families and organizations across the globe observing this special day! Scroll down to read more about #MFDday and the fun articles and events posted!… Continue Reading Mother Father Deaf Day 2018

10 Coda Pride Actions and Expressions

With unique households and a bimodal language c/kodas grow up at the intersection of both the hearing and deaf worlds. This experience, while varied, transcends borders and is shared across the world. Often, c/kodas gather at various places such as coda conferences, camps or other gatherings to celebrate their multicultural identity and deaf heritage! Here… Continue Reading 10 Coda Pride Actions and Expressions

10 Even More Gift Ideas for the Holiday Season

  Still on the hunt for gift ideas for this holiday season? No Look no further- the KODAheart team has compiled ANOTHER list of gift ideas for you!The best part? These gifts keep on giving: they are created by/purchased from members of our own Deaf community! Want more? Check out our lists from previous years list… Continue Reading 10 Even More Gift Ideas for the Holiday Season

10 Ways to build a c/koda identity

A person’s identity is formed over time, the result of a mixture of experience and exposure to people from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Over time we come to affiliate ourselves with groups that share our worldview. For many, a c/koda identity is forged through experiences at camp or conference- but what steps may be… Continue Reading 10 Ways to build a c/koda identity

Mark Villaver (1990- )

  Mark Villaver, the YouTube sensation well-known for dancing with his deaf mother, recently took his talents to FOX on “So You Think You Can Dance.” Born July 3rd, 1990 in Honolulu Hawaii,  Mark was the second of four children. His mother Emilia was born in the Philippines in 1968. At the age of two,… Continue Reading Mark Villaver (1990- )

10 More Costume Ideas For the Deaf Community

Here is another list of deaf culture costumes this year for you and your family to choose from! If you haven’t come up with a costume already our list might have an idea for you. Some of them may require some creativity and some artistic skill but are sure to be a hit! 1. Dress up… Continue Reading 10 More Costume Ideas For the Deaf Community

Deaf Awareness Week 2017

During the last week in September communities across the US and around the world come together to celebrate Deaf Awareness Week (also known as the International Week of the Deaf). It is a time to recognize the languages, cultures, and experiences of deaf and hard of hearing people. During this week many organizations plan events… Continue Reading Deaf Awareness Week 2017