by Thom Benson
posted May 1, 2008
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To the diver, the sight of hundreds of lively fish maneuvering in and out of the coral reef in silence is nothing new. Now imagine being immersed in a room full of people and not hearing the sounds associated with the crowd.
This silent world is a reality for nearly three million Americans who are totally deaf. Another 25 million people in the United States can hear some sound, but have severe enough hearing loss to be classified as deaf.
This Saturday, the Tennessee Aquarium will host “Deaf Day at the Tennessee Aquarium.” Deaf Day will feature special programs and events designed specifically for the deaf community. Sign language interpreters and guides will provide help translating special programs, keeper talks, dive shows, and behind-the-scenes tours offered throughout both of the Aquarium’s Ocean Journey and River Journey buildings.
Deaf Day at the Aquarium will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sign language specialists will partner with Aquarium staff and docents to deliver educational presentations and introduce guests to all kinds of animals including macaroni and gentoo penguins, river otters, hyacinth macaws, butterflies, and sand tiger sharks.
Deaf Day at the Aquarium is the result of a partnership between the Tennessee Aquarium and Gate Communications for the purpose of connecting with the deaf community.
Gate Communications is a national not-for-profit organization which serves the deaf and hard of hearing communities through accessibility services, events and outreaches both locally and across the United States. www.gatecommunications.org
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