Deaf HERstory Curatorial Statement

Deaf HERstory

Deaf HERstory is the Gallaudet University Museum’s first exhibit focusing on the diversity of the Deaf community and its experiences.  The exhibit arose from conversations with three pioneers of Deaf women’s studies: Mrs. Vicki Hurwitz, Dr. Arlene Blumenthal Kelly, and Dr. Genie Gertz.  Together with Dr. Carol Erting and Dr. Jane Norman, we developed a framework through which to tell the story of Deaf women and how their intersectional story is unique.

The lenses through which Deaf HERstory examines the experiences of Deaf women includes:

• Women’s Lives
• Movement and Action
• Overcoming Struggle
• Education

These themes were further developed by student interns from Gallaudet’s Department of ASL and Deaf Studies.  Deaf HERstory is the Museum’s first exhibit produced in cooperation with undergraduate interns, an excellent example of the educational value of academic museums.

This exhibit is also the first time the Gallaudet University Museum has incorporated visitor comments into the exhibition. We are pleased to bring you multiple new projects in a single exhibit, and look forward to your feedback on Deaf HERstory.

Meredith Peruzzi

Exhibition Curator

Deaf HERstory