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We, Native Deaf People, Are Still Here!
We Are Equal Exhibit
The Life of Robert Panara Exhibit
Olof Hanson Exhibit
Deaf Peace Corps Exhibit
Language, Culture, Communities
Deaf HERstory Exhibit
Andrew J. Foster Exhibit
Then and Now Exhibit
History Through Deaf Eyes
Gallaudet at 150 and Beyond Exhibit
GU
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National Deaf Life Museum
Exhibits
Left Behind: HIV/AIDS and the Deaf...
Left Behind: HIV/AIDS and the Deaf Community
Open in Chapel Hall during regular museum hours through December 1, 2023
This exhibition recounts the history of the HIV/AIDS crisis as it was experienced by the Deaf community. Because news, health information, and support networks were not accessible in American Sign Language until several years after the pandemic began, hundreds of Deaf people – nearly all of them gay men – died of AIDS. Now, more than 40 years after the crisis began, d/Deaf people still face difficulties getting information about PrEP and HIV treatment, and continue to encounter both societal barriers and a lack of understanding from the medical establishment.
Left Behind: HIV/AIDS and the Deaf Community focuses heavily on the AIDS Memorial Quilt, begun in 1987 by hearing activist Cleve Jones. A Black Deaf gay man, Reggie Hightower, was one of the first people commemorated on the quilt. Since then, dozens more panels have been made for members of the Deaf community. In December 2022, four blocks of the quilt accompanied the exhibition, and the Gallaudet community will contribute to the quilt during 2023.
Special Thanks
Drago Renteria
Tabitha Jacques
Office of University Communications
Office of the President