What is the significance of having a hearing president at Gallaudet University since the 1988 protest?
The significance of having a hearing president at Gallaudet University since the 1988 protest lies in the ongoing struggle for deaf representation and the recognition of American Sign Language (ASL) as a legitimate language and medium of instruction.
To understand the significance, let's first explore the context of the 1988 protest. Gallaudet University is a renowned institution for the education of deaf and hard-of-hearing students in the United States. Prior to 1988, all the presidents of Gallaudet University were hearing individuals, which created a sense of frustration and injustice among the students and faculty who felt that a deaf president would better understand and represent their community's needs.
The protest in 1988, known as the "Deaf President Now" movement, was a student-led initiative demanding a deaf president for Gallaudet University. This historic event brought attention to the lack of representation and decision-making power for deaf individuals in prominent positions, not only at Gallaudet but also in society as a whole. The successful outcome of the protest led to the appointment of Dr. I. King Jordan, the first deaf president of Gallaudet University.
The significance of having a deaf president at Gallaudet University after the protest was twofold. Firstly, it shattered the stereotype that deaf individuals were incapable of assuming leadership roles and demonstrated that they could effectively lead an institution of higher education. This empowered the deaf community and inspired future generations to believe in their own potential.
Secondly, having a deaf president at Gallaudet University allowed for better representation of the deaf community's unique language, culture, and experiences. Dr. Jordan's presidency helped promote and legitimize ASL as the primary language and mode of communication on campus. This furthered the recognition of ASL as a distinct language and pushed for its acceptance in educational settings beyond Gallaudet. It also fostered a sense of deaf pride and identity among students, faculty, and the larger deaf community.
While the discussion surrounding the choice of president at Gallaudet University continues, the 1988 protest remains a pivotal moment in the history of the university and the deaf community as it highlighted the importance of deaf leadership, representation, and recognition of ASL.
The 1988 protest at Gallaudet University, known as the "Deaf President Now" (DPN) movement, was a pivotal event in the history of the deaf community. The significance of having a hearing president at Gallaudet prior to this protest was that it perpetuated a long-standing pattern of underrepresentation and marginalization of the deaf community.
Here are the steps that led to the significance of having a hearing president at Gallaudet University since the 1988 protest:
1. Background: Since its establishment in 1864, Gallaudet University, located in Washington, D.C., had always been led by hearing presidents. This practice reflected a belief that deaf individuals were not capable of effectively serving in leadership positions, which perpetuated societal stereotypes and discrimination.
2. The Appointment of a Hearing President: In 1987, the Board of Trustees at Gallaudet University announced the appointment of a hearing president, Dr. Elisabeth A. Zinser. This decision was met with strong opposition from students, faculty, staff, and members of the deaf community.
3. The Protest: The selection of a hearing president sparked outrage and frustration among the Gallaudet community. Students, faculty, staff, and supporters began to organize protests on campus, demanding a deaf president who could better understand the needs and experiences of the deaf community.
4. The "Deaf President Now" Movement: The protests quickly gained momentum and became known as the "Deaf President Now" movement. The movement's key demands were the appointment of a deaf president, a deaf majority on the Board of Trustees, and no reprisals for participants involved in the protests.
5. Unity and Solidarity: The protests at Gallaudet University brought together deaf and hearing individuals, activists, and supporters from across the country. It highlighted the strength and unity of the deaf community in advocating for their rights and equal representation.
6. National Attention: The DPN movement gained national media attention, raising awareness about the challenges faced by the deaf community in higher education and society as a whole. It helped educate the public and challenge deeply ingrained stereotypes and misconceptions about deaf individuals.
7. The Appointment of a Deaf President: In response to the protests and mounting pressure, the Board of Trustees reconsidered their decision, and on March 13, 1988, they appointed Dr. I. King Jordan as the university's first deaf president.
8. Symbol of Empowerment and Change: The appointment of a deaf president was a significant milestone for the deaf community. It marked a turning point in the fight for deaf rights and served as a symbol of empowerment, inclusion, and progress for the entire community.
9. Lasting Impact: The DPN movement had a lasting impact on the attitudes and perceptions of society towards deaf individuals. It brought attention to the importance of deaf culture, sign language, and the recognition of the capabilities and leadership qualities of deaf people.
10. Increased Advocacy and Representation: Following the protest, there has been a significant increase in advocacy efforts for deaf rights, including improved access to education, employment, and public services. Gallaudet University, as a pioneer in deaf education, continues to play a crucial role in promoting deaf culture, raising awareness, and advocating for the rights of deaf individuals.
In summary, the appointment of a hearing president at Gallaudet University prior to the 1988 protest represented the marginalization and underrepresentation of deaf individuals. The DPN movement was significant in challenging societal norms, raising awareness, and ultimately leading to the appointment of a deaf president. It symbolized the empowerment, unity, and progress of the deaf community while highlighting the importance of inclusivity, representation, and cultural understanding.