Guest Author - Kelli Deister

February is National Black History Month and there are many in the Deaf community that deserve commendation for their contributions to the betterment of our society.

The first individual that I would like to highlight is Dr. Andrew J. Foster. Dr. Foster lost his hearing when he was a young child, due to spinal meningitis. It is my opinion that both his education and his faith in God were very important to Dr. Foster. He went on to be the first African American to graduate from Gallaudet University. However, Dr. Foster did not stop there. He later established several schools and churches in Africa, as well as having taught sign language, in order for the Deaf in Africa to effectively communicate with one another and obtain an education.

Second, C.J. Jones was born with his hearing, but also became deaf because of spinal meningitis at a young age. Mr. Jones graduated from the National Technical Institute for the Deaf. He is a well known actor and has won a Tony Award due to one of his performances.

Third, in the sports realm, are Curtis Pride and Kenny Walker. Mr. Pride played soccer and baseball and was quite successful in both sports while Mr. Walker played professional football and then went on to be a football coach for the Deaf.

Fourth, there is the annual Miss Black Deaf America Pageant. The 2004-2005 Miss Black Deaf America is Sophia McFadden. The next Miss Black Deaf America will be crowned during the National Black Deaf Advocates Conference on July 3, 2006.

Lastly, there is a national organization that advocates on behalf of Deaf African Americans. The name of the organization is the National Black Deaf Advocates and you may be directed to their website through the link to the right of this article.

I would like to take a moment to congratulate, as well as to extend my humble thanks to, all African Americans that are Deaf and that endeavor to bring about positive changes within our society. Thank you for your valuable contributions to both the Deaf and the hearing communities. You are to be applauded for helping to dispel all myths that have plagued our society regarding the Deaf.