Deaf President Now!

Film screening and Discussion

A film that celebrates Disability Pride through the story of the 1988 historical student protests at Gallaudet University.

Join us in the New Books room to watch this intriguing documentary about one of the greatest civil rights protests many have never heard of. In 1988, when a hearing candidate was elected over other deaf candidates, Gallaudet University students resisted, inspired a movement, and made history.

*The film and discussion will be captioned. ASL interpretation will be provided. 

Panelists include:

Kari Cooke, is the Executive Director of the Office of Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing. She is very experienced in policy development and community engagement through her work with the Center for Disability Rights, National Black Deaf Advocates (NBDA), and U.S. Department of Labor affiliate programs. Her work focuses on supporting underserved communities, including Deaf youth, veterans experiencing homelessness, and individuals reentering society after incarceration.

William "Billy" Ennis, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the departments of History and Arts & Humanities at Gallaudet University, dedicated to supporting Deaf students and fostering inclusive learning environments. His professional interests include Deaf education, inclusive teaching practices, and promoting student success. He is recognized for his work with students and his engagement in the Gallaudet community.

Jannelle Legg, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of History at Gallaudet University with a joint appointment in the Schuchman Deaf Documentary Center. A Child of Deaf Adults (CODA), her work focuses on U.S. history, American religious history, and digital history, with a strong emphasis on documenting and preserving Deaf history and culture.

For more information or reasonable accommodations, contact the Center for Accessibility by email at dcplaccess@dc.gov or call 202-727-2142.

Sensory Note:
Loud; Large crowd 

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