The University of Iowa American Sign Language Program in the Division of World Languages, Literatures and Cultures will host Deaf Awareness Week Saturday, Sept. 21 through Friday, Sept. 27.

Various programs, presentations, and opportunities to practice sign language are scheduled on and around campus. All events are free and open to the public.

Special activities include an American Sign Language (ASL) story time, workshops on interacting with deaf persons and interpreters, and a sports night at the UI Field House.

Sign and voice interpreters will be present at all activities, except for select events intended to facilitate informal conversation among ASL learners and speakers. You can find a full schedule of Deaf Awareness Week activities.

Deaf Awareness Week was recognized in a proclamation this month by Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad. The week is intended to help promote and raise awareness about the culture and contributions of deaf persons, as well as the obstacles they face. Currently, the state is home to more than 300,000 deaf and hard of hearing persons.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all UI-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to attend this event, or would like more information, contact Program Coordinator AmyRuth McGraw in advance at 319-335-0247 or at amyruth-mcgraw@uiowa.edu.