Outstanding Resilience
Contributed to the Success
of Utah's Deaf Women's History
Contributed to the Success
of Utah's Deaf Women's History
Compiled & Written by Jodi Christel Becker
Edited by Valerie G. Kinney
Published in 2020
Updated in 2025
Edited by Valerie G. Kinney
Published in 2020
Updated in 2025
Author's Note
As a Deaf feminist with a deep passion for Women's Studies, I can't help but feel uplifted by the incredible resilience and achievements of Deaf women in Utah. Even though they face challenges in various areas like social, economic, professional, and political realms, these amazing women have lived vibrant, fulfilling lives and accomplished impressive educational and career goals. Their journeys serve as a trustworthy source of hope and inspiration for all of us!
When sharing stories about individuals on our history website, I prefer to use their first names. I believe this approach honors everyone who contributes to and advocates for our community causes. In our patriarchal society that often highlights women's work through their husbands' last names, I want to break that mold. By using first names, we celebrate inclusivity, equality, and each person's unique identity, highlighting the significant role of women's advocacy in our community.
Speaking of history, our organization has a fascinating name journey! Originally called the Utah Association for the Deaf, we became the Utah Association of the Deaf back in 2012. Before that, we proudly carried the name from 1909 to 1962 and switched to the Utah Association for the Deaf from 1963 until our current name change in 2012. When crafting our history website, I make sure to use both "of" and "for" to honor the different eras of our association's rich history.
Thank you so much for your interest in this topic! I'm thrilled to share these stories with you.
Enjoy!
Jodi Christel Becker
When sharing stories about individuals on our history website, I prefer to use their first names. I believe this approach honors everyone who contributes to and advocates for our community causes. In our patriarchal society that often highlights women's work through their husbands' last names, I want to break that mold. By using first names, we celebrate inclusivity, equality, and each person's unique identity, highlighting the significant role of women's advocacy in our community.
Speaking of history, our organization has a fascinating name journey! Originally called the Utah Association for the Deaf, we became the Utah Association of the Deaf back in 2012. Before that, we proudly carried the name from 1909 to 1962 and switched to the Utah Association for the Deaf from 1963 until our current name change in 2012. When crafting our history website, I make sure to use both "of" and "for" to honor the different eras of our association's rich history.
Thank you so much for your interest in this topic! I'm thrilled to share these stories with you.
Enjoy!
Jodi Christel Becker
Deaf Women's Conference in Utah
The Deaf Women's Conference, a pivotal event in the history of Deaf women's rights, was held on October 6, 1979, at the International Dunes Hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah. Under the leadership of President W. David Mortensen, also known as Dave, the Utah Association for the Deaf sponsored the event, marking a significant milestone in the advocacy for Deaf women's rights.
W. David Mortensen, UAD President
Lois Jones, the chairperson, led a committee that included Celia May Laramie Baldwin, Darlene Stewart Cochran, and Ilene Coles Kinner in the planning of the conference. Over eighty women aged 18 to 80 attended the conference (The Deaf American, February 6, 1980).
Utah Deaf Women Conference. L-R: Darlene Stewart Cochran, Ilene Coles Kinner, Lois Jones, & Celia May Laramie Baldwin, 1979
A Deaf Advocate for Women's Rights
Dr. Gertrude Scott Galloway, a champion of Deaf women's rights and the first female president of the National Association of the Deaf, delivered a keynote address to the audience during the conference. In her speech, she highlighted the importance of women's rights and how they affect various areas, such as credit cards, salaries, and surnames. She also mentioned Agatha Tiegel Hanson, who was the first female graduate of Gallaudet College in 1893, and cited her graduation speech, "New Horizons For Deaf Women," which was written even before Women's Suffrage (The Deaf American, February 6, 1980).
Dr. Gertrude Scott Galloway. Source: Deaf Life, August 2014
New Horizons For Deaf Women
"Women should be free as the air to learn what she will and do devote her life to whatever vocation seems good to her…It is true that we have made a start in the right direction. But that start has been made very recently, and it is too early to pass sentence on the results."
~Agatha Tiegel Hanson, 1893~
~Agatha Tiegel Hanson, 1893~
Agatha Tiegel Hanson. Source: Gallaudet University Archives
Agatha Tiegel Hanson was the first female
graduate and valedictorian of Gallaudet College and early champion of both Deaf & Women's rights.
graduate and valedictorian of Gallaudet College and early champion of both Deaf & Women's rights.
Workshops at the
Deaf Women's Conference
Deaf Women's Conference
The workshops, led by Beth Ann Stewart Campbell, an esteemed local interpreter and Child of Deaf Adults (CODA), and Nancy R. Rarus, a passionate advocate for Deaf Rights, covered a wide range of topics. Beth Ann's discussions on sex, family, and money were relevant to everyone, while Nancy's focus on leadership among women and the Utah Community Center for the Deaf proposal provided valuable insights into the issues affecting Deaf women.
The conference, a resounding success, left a positive imprint on the attendees, igniting discussions about a potential women's conference in the coming year. The transformative effect of the conference was evident when one husband shared that his wife returned with a newfound sense of happiness, prompting him to pledge his unwavering support for her attendance, even if it meant paying $9.00 each time! (The Deaf American, February 6, 1980). The conference not only sparked conversations about future events but also brought about personal transformations, inspiring individuals to support the cause of Deaf women's rights.
Since Agatha Tiegal Hanson's groundbreaking Gallaudet speech in 1893, women's progress and opportunities have been steadily advancing, and this trend continues today. While we acknowledge the progress, our commitment to achieving equal opportunities for women and girls remains unwavering, inspiring us to continue the fight for equality.
The conference, a resounding success, left a positive imprint on the attendees, igniting discussions about a potential women's conference in the coming year. The transformative effect of the conference was evident when one husband shared that his wife returned with a newfound sense of happiness, prompting him to pledge his unwavering support for her attendance, even if it meant paying $9.00 each time! (The Deaf American, February 6, 1980). The conference not only sparked conversations about future events but also brought about personal transformations, inspiring individuals to support the cause of Deaf women's rights.
Since Agatha Tiegal Hanson's groundbreaking Gallaudet speech in 1893, women's progress and opportunities have been steadily advancing, and this trend continues today. While we acknowledge the progress, our commitment to achieving equal opportunities for women and girls remains unwavering, inspiring us to continue the fight for equality.
Nancy Rarus, Gertrude Galloway & Beth Ann Campbell, hands making a female symbol shape. Source: The Deaf American, February 6, 1980
A Female Symbol
Female Symbol. Source: clipart-library.com
The Utah Deaf Women's Conference attendees, 1979
1994 Deaf Women's
Conference in Utah
The Deaf Women's Conference, a significant event in the history of Deaf women's advocacy, took place at Salt Lake Community College on October 21–21, 1994, fifteen years later. Kristi Mortensen, a local Deaf feminist, chaired the conference with the theme "Towards the 21st Century: An Exciting Journey." The keynote speaker was Dr. Barbara Brauer, a pioneer in Deaf Mental Health. Dr. Petra M. Horn-Marsh, a Deaf Bilingual advocate, also presented the history of Deaf women's struggles and accomplishments. During the workshop sessions, Dr. Brauer gave a talk on "Women and Violence," and Dr. Lawrence Fleischer, a Deaf Studies professor at California State University, Northridge, presented "The Enhanced Image of a Deaf Woman: Amee Mathews.
Kristi Mortensen
Women Viewed as a Marginalized Group
Women, despite outnumbering men in college and the workforce, are still considered a marginalized group. Particularly, Deaf women endure further marginalization and potential double discrimination (The Deaf American, February 6, 1980). Unfortunately, women generally experience marginalization in educational, social, economic, professional, and political spheres. Utah ranks lowest in the nation in terms of gender equality, with a low representation of women in politics, a gender pay gap, and a disparity between men and women in obtaining a college education. Despite these challenges, women across the country are working to advocate, educate, and promote gender equality.
Dr. Petra M. Horn-Marsh
Deaf Women Face Double Barriers
Deaf women who face communication barriers and double oppression encounter various challenges, including those related to education, socialization, economic opportunities, professionalism, and politics. Despite these obstacles, many Deaf women have led fulfilling and productive lives comparable to those of their hearing peers. Some have overcome significant hurdles and achieved remarkable success in their education and careers. It is essential to recognize and celebrate these women's accomplishments. The website features 'Biographies of Prominent Utah Deaf Women' who have made notable contributions, highlighting the importance of acknowledging their achievements and the respect they deserve.
Source: 'Towards the 21st Century: An Exciting Journey.' The Utah Deaf Women's Conference at Salt Lake Community Center on October 21-22, 1994
Utah Deaf Women Who Made
a Difference in the Deaf Community
a Difference in the Deaf Community
During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Utah was a hub of progressive women who actively pursued education and careers while advocating for their political goals, even in the context of practicing polygamy. These women were engaged in various fields, including activism, medicine, academia, writing, and politics (Brooks, Steenblik & Wheelwright, 2016). The suffrage movement, a critical moment in women's history, significantly shaped their aspirations. This influence also extended to Deaf women in Utah, providing a rich historical context that enlightens us about the roots of women's activism in the state.
Elizabeth DeLong, the First Female President
of the Utah Association of the Deaf
of the Utah Association of the Deaf
In 1909, Elizabeth DeLong, affectionately known as "Libbie," made history by defeating two male Deaf candidates, becoming the first female Deaf president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, an advocacy organization for accessibility and civil rights of the Utah Deaf community. Additionally, she became the first female Deaf president of any state chapter association of the National Association of the Deaf in the United States. Despite societal barriers as a Deaf woman, her victory over two Deaf male candidates in the election was a significant achievement, as women did not gain the right to vote until the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, and the National Association of the Deaf did not allow Deaf women members to vote in their elections until 1964. Libbie's remarkable achievement is a testament to her perseverance, likely inspired by her involvement in Gallaudet's O.W.L.S. presidential election in 1901, a secret society for women now known as Phi Kappa Zeta. Her active participation in Utah's early suffrage movement also fueled her educational, political, and spiritual aspirations. Libbie served as president of the Utah Association of the Deaf from 1909 to 1915, marking a significant milestone in the organization's history. At the end of her second term as president in 1915, she delivered a powerful speech that marked a turning point in the women's suffrage movement. Growing up in Utah, where women gained the right to vote on February 14, 1870, Libbie passionately advocated for women's suffrage in her 1915 speech. Her commitment to promoting women's rights demonstrated her dedication and had a profound and lasting impact on the movement, inspiring many and continuing to empower us today. As a trailblazer for Deaf women in leadership roles, Libbie has supported women's suffrage and made significant contributions to both the Utah Deaf community and the women's rights movement, leaving a lasting impact through her work that continues to shape our society.
The BetterDays2002 website features Libbie's biography, as well as those of other Utah women trailblazers' accomplishments and contributions.
The BetterDays2002 website features Libbie's biography, as well as those of other Utah women trailblazers' accomplishments and contributions.
Elizabeth DeLong. Source: FamilySearch.org
Emma M. Emmertson, as revealed by her grandson Don Jorgenson II in an interview with Carolyn Jorgenson, was a suffragette who actively participated in the Women's Suffrage Movement from the late 19th to the early 20th century. This significant social and political campaign aimed to secure voting rights for women. Emma's granddaughter, Kristan Jorgensen, also described her as a very strong woman on FamilySearch.org.
Utah's women's suffrage campaign, a local movement, played a crucial role in shaping Emma's activism. This grassroots effort successfully granted women the right to vote in 1870 and left a lasting impact on Elizabeth DeLong, the first female president of the Utah Association of the Deaf. Emma was deeply inspired by the courage and determination of these trailblazing women, which ignited her own commitment to activism. This is a powerful example of how local movements can drive national change, as demonstrated by the Women's Suffrage Movement.
Utah's women's suffrage campaign, a local movement, played a crucial role in shaping Emma's activism. This grassroots effort successfully granted women the right to vote in 1870 and left a lasting impact on Elizabeth DeLong, the first female president of the Utah Association of the Deaf. Emma was deeply inspired by the courage and determination of these trailblazing women, which ignited her own commitment to activism. This is a powerful example of how local movements can drive national change, as demonstrated by the Women's Suffrage Movement.
Emma M. Emmertson. Source: The Utah Eagle, June 6, 1907
In 1910, Mary Anne Wooslayer, a Deaf woman, made history as the first female Deaf student to graduate with a bachelor's degree from the University of Utah. She was sponsored during her time at the university by Maud May Babcock, a member of the Utah School for the Deaf Board of Trustees and a faculty member at the University of Utah (Mary Woolslayer Photograph Collection, 1890). The early efforts in the state to promote education and career opportunities for women, along with Mary's connection to Maud May Babcock, likely influenced her decision to pursue higher education at the University of Utah, where she graduated in 1916. Similarly, Emma M. Emmertson enrolled at the University of Utah in 1911 and graduated in 1917, highlighting the opportunities available for women at that time. After completing their college education, both Mary and Emma went on to teach in state schools for the Deaf.
Mary Anne Wooslayer
Between 1864 and 1887, Gallaudet College denied Deaf women admission (Gallaudet University: US History Encyclopedia). Similarly, the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf (NFSD), established in 1901 as a Deaf-owned and operated insurance organization, provided insurance to Deaf men. However, the NFSD initially excluded women from membership and equal privileges, forcing them to fight for their rights. In early 1915, Deaf women began to campaign for full membership and admission to this male-dominated organization, which viewed men as the primary figures in the household (Records of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf, 1900–2006).
In Utah, NFSD's early efforts were spearheaded by Justina Wooldridge Keeley, a significant figure in its history who later became involved with Salt Lake City Division No. 56. While visiting her home state of Missouri, Keeley discovered a Deaf-owned and operated insurance organization. Upon returning to Salt Lake City, Utah, the Salt Lake City Division No. 56 was founded in 1916 by the local Deaf men (UAD Bulletin, Summer, 1966; Walker, 1966).
Justina's discovery was bittersweet, as the NFSD had previously denied her and other women full membership and admission. Women did not receive regular insurance membership until 1951, which marked a significant advancement in women's rights (Records of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf, 1900–2006). This change highlighted the importance of gender inclusion in the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf and represented a considerable achievement in the struggle for equality within the organization.
In Utah, NFSD's early efforts were spearheaded by Justina Wooldridge Keeley, a significant figure in its history who later became involved with Salt Lake City Division No. 56. While visiting her home state of Missouri, Keeley discovered a Deaf-owned and operated insurance organization. Upon returning to Salt Lake City, Utah, the Salt Lake City Division No. 56 was founded in 1916 by the local Deaf men (UAD Bulletin, Summer, 1966; Walker, 1966).
Justina's discovery was bittersweet, as the NFSD had previously denied her and other women full membership and admission. Women did not receive regular insurance membership until 1951, which marked a significant advancement in women's rights (Records of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf, 1900–2006). This change highlighted the importance of gender inclusion in the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf and represented a considerable achievement in the struggle for equality within the organization.
Justina W. Keeley. Source: Golden Anniversary: Salt Lake City Division No. 56. October 15, 1966
Did You Know?
Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, a prominent figure from Utah, was set to become the president of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) in July 1964. This coincided with the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which granted women in the Deaf community the right to vote. In 1965, the NAD further expanded inclusivity by allowing Black Deaf individuals to join and vote, following the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Prior to these changes, the NAD had denied voting rights to women and excluded Black individuals from membership. These developments marked a significant shift towards equality within the organization and highlighted a commitment to creating a more inclusive Deaf community.
Dr. Robert G. Sanderson. Source: Gallaudet University Archives
Kim Lucas, the Second Female President
of the Utah Association of the Deaf
of the Utah Association of the Deaf
In 2019, Kim Lucas made history by becoming the second woman president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, ending 104 years of male leadership. Elizabeth Delong was the first woman to hold this position, completing her term in 1915. Kim's election represents a significant milestone for the organization, highlighting its commitment to progress and inclusivity. Throughout her journey, the Utah Association of the Deaf provided support, fostering greater diversity in leadership. Additionally, Kim is the first queer president of the organization, marking a pivotal moment for women's leadership and representation within the Deaf Queer community.
From there, Kim steered the Utah Association of the Deaf towards emphasizing social justice concerns, leading to the formation of regular gatherings such as Queer ASL Utah and Utah Deaf Womxn. Meanwhile, under the supervision of the Department of Workforce Services, the DSDHH cut ties with the Utah Association of the Deaf for the first time in 2019 but continued providing activities for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind communities. UAD also supported the relaunch of Deaf Night Out. Kim served as president for four and a half years. Her presidency came to an end because of the bylaws. Her presidential leadership was much appreciated and well respected.
From there, Kim steered the Utah Association of the Deaf towards emphasizing social justice concerns, leading to the formation of regular gatherings such as Queer ASL Utah and Utah Deaf Womxn. Meanwhile, under the supervision of the Department of Workforce Services, the DSDHH cut ties with the Utah Association of the Deaf for the first time in 2019 but continued providing activities for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind communities. UAD also supported the relaunch of Deaf Night Out. Kim served as president for four and a half years. Her presidency came to an end because of the bylaws. Her presidential leadership was much appreciated and well respected.
Kim Lucas
For the first time since 1909, the Utah Association of the Deaf has achieved a significant milestone with two female presidential officers: Kim Lucas as president and Ashli-Marie Grant as vice president. This marks a significant step towards gender equality and diversity in the leadership of our organization.
Ashli-Marie Grant
Utah Deaf Womxn Group
Kim Lucas, president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, and Ashli-Maire Grant, vice president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, spearheaded the establishment of the Utah Deaf Womxn Group in 2019, collaborating with two advocates, Emisha Sill and myself, Jodi Christel Becker. The group's goal is to promote the diverse lives of Deaf womxn, regardless of their gender, race, and sexual identities, by empowering and enriching them. The group aims to bring together Deaf womxn in a supportive environment where they can socialize and learn from each other.
The Utah Deaf Womxn Group operates under the umbrella of the Utah Association of the Deaf. The Utah Association of the Deaf created this group to address the specific and significant challenges faced by Deaf women in Utah, such as educational, social, economic, professional, and political marginalization. Utah is one of the most challenging states in the nation for women, grappling with issues such as the gender pay gap, the low number of women completing their college education, and the challenges of advancing economically. Specifically, Deaf womxn experience double oppression because of language barriers.
The Utah Deaf Womxn Group dedicates itself to tackling gender inequality and significantly enhancing women's lives in the community. The group highlights the achievements of female and queer leaders, aiming to empower and encourage others. By developing strategies to promote leadership and service within the Utah Deaf community, the group seeks to improve the quality of life for all community members. The group also addresses political, legal, and cultural issues that womxn, especially Deaf womxn, face in Utah and nationally. Through collaboration, the group can make a significant impact on the lives of womxn in the community, fostering a sense of hope and optimism.
The Utah Deaf Womxn Group operates under the umbrella of the Utah Association of the Deaf. The Utah Association of the Deaf created this group to address the specific and significant challenges faced by Deaf women in Utah, such as educational, social, economic, professional, and political marginalization. Utah is one of the most challenging states in the nation for women, grappling with issues such as the gender pay gap, the low number of women completing their college education, and the challenges of advancing economically. Specifically, Deaf womxn experience double oppression because of language barriers.
The Utah Deaf Womxn Group dedicates itself to tackling gender inequality and significantly enhancing women's lives in the community. The group highlights the achievements of female and queer leaders, aiming to empower and encourage others. By developing strategies to promote leadership and service within the Utah Deaf community, the group seeks to improve the quality of life for all community members. The group also addresses political, legal, and cultural issues that womxn, especially Deaf womxn, face in Utah and nationally. Through collaboration, the group can make a significant impact on the lives of womxn in the community, fostering a sense of hope and optimism.
Emisha Sill. Source: Linkedin
Deaf Women United
Deaf Women United is an organization with a mission to empower and elevate the status of Deaf women. We strive to raise awareness of the inequalities that still exist and celebrate female leaders' accomplishments. We also recognize the history of unequal treatment of women and aim to develop leadership skills and increase service to the Deaf Women's community, thus improving their lives.
If you'd like to support our Deaf Women's community, please sign up for the Deaf Women United newsletter at www.dwu.org.
If you'd like to support our Deaf Women's community, please sign up for the Deaf Women United newsletter at www.dwu.org.
Deaf Women United. Source: www.dwu.org
Accolades of the Early Utah
Deaf & Non-Deaf Women's History
Check out the 'Outstanding Contributions in the Early History of Utah's Deaf and Non-Deaf Women' webpage to learn more about women's history in Utah.
Susan B. Anthony with suffrage leaders from Utah and elsewhere. Source: Women Suffrage in Utah
References
Brooks, Joanna, Steenblik Rachel Hunt and Wheelwright, Hannah. "Mormon Feminism Essential Writing." Oxford University Press, 2016.
Gallaudet University Library Deaf Collections and Archives, "Records of National Fraternal Society of the Deaf, 1900-2006."
“Locals.” The Buff and Blue, vol. 10, no. 1 (October 1901), p. 29.
Mary Woolslayer Photograph Collection. (1890). J. Willard Marriot Library, University of Utah. Collection Number UU_P0669.
"National Fraternal Society of the Deaf, 1901-2007 manuscripts." Records of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf, 1900–2006. Gallaudet University Archives.
The Deaf American Vol. 32 No. 06 February 1980. https://archive.org/details/TheDeafAmerican3206February1980/page/n9/mode/2up
"Salt Lake Frat to Mark 50th Year." The UAD Bulletin, Vol. 4 No. 3 (Summer 1966): 1.
Walker, Rodney Wilson. Outlined History of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf. Golden Anniversary: Salt Lake City Division No. 56 National Fraternal Society of the Deaf 1916-1966. Prudential Plaza Auditorium, October 15, 1966.
Gallaudet University Library Deaf Collections and Archives, "Records of National Fraternal Society of the Deaf, 1900-2006."
“Locals.” The Buff and Blue, vol. 10, no. 1 (October 1901), p. 29.
Mary Woolslayer Photograph Collection. (1890). J. Willard Marriot Library, University of Utah. Collection Number UU_P0669.
"National Fraternal Society of the Deaf, 1901-2007 manuscripts." Records of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf, 1900–2006. Gallaudet University Archives.
The Deaf American Vol. 32 No. 06 February 1980. https://archive.org/details/TheDeafAmerican3206February1980/page/n9/mode/2up
"Salt Lake Frat to Mark 50th Year." The UAD Bulletin, Vol. 4 No. 3 (Summer 1966): 1.
Walker, Rodney Wilson. Outlined History of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf. Golden Anniversary: Salt Lake City Division No. 56 National Fraternal Society of the Deaf 1916-1966. Prudential Plaza Auditorium, October 15, 1966.
