Utah's Connection
in Black Deaf History
Written by Jodi Becker Kinner
Published in 2020
Updated in 2024
Published in 2020
Updated in 2024
Author’s Note
I have a strong interest in Black History due to my relationship with a Black guy during high school. This interest often leads me to reflect on the roles of two prominent figures in the Utah Deaf community, Dr. Robert G. Sanderson and W. David Mortensen (known as Dave), while writing the history website. They, like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, were active leaders in their community. Yet their individual characteristics and leadership styles are what set them apart. For example, with his diplomatic listening skills and willingness to assist others, Robert was akin to MLK. Malcolm X's fearless advocacy mirrored that of Dave, a political activist known for his ambition and persistence as a Deaf leader. Similarly, Dr. Sanderson and Dr. Martin were well-known for their bridge-building, empathetic listening, and educating others about equality-related topics. They also had a platform to express themselves and get attention, thanks to their Ph.D. degrees.
Dave was an inspiring leader who fearlessly fought for civil and accessible rights for the local Deaf community, much like Malcolm X. His dedication and leadership skills were admirable. On the other hand, Robert had a different leadership style, but despite their differences, they formed an effective team that efficiently met the needs of the Utah Deaf community. Dave took over where Robert left off and successfully completed the projects until the end. They supported and relied on each other to succeed. Dave could not have advocated for the community without Robert's initial work, and Robert could not have accomplished his work without Dave's support. Dave and Robert were relentless in their advocacy, much like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, who were known for their unwavering perseverance in their respective communities in fighting and accomplishing civil rights. I have a great admiration for these individuals.
In 1965, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 marked a significant milestone in the fight for equality, as it allowed Deaf women to vote and gave Black Deaf individuals the opportunity to join and vote in the National Association of the Deaf. Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, the association's president and a prominent figure locally and nationally, led this historic move. These changes were a significant step towards building a more inclusive community for all Deaf people, regardless of race, gender, and sexuality, as well as a milestone in the NAD's history, marking a step towards inclusivity and equality.
The National Association of the Deaf was established in 1880 to advocate for the rights of Deaf people. However, Black Deaf people were not allowed to become members or vote until 1965. The prevailing racial discrimination at the time prohibited them from joining not only the NAD but also other Deaf organizations and clubs.
The National Association of the Deaf was established in 1880 to advocate for the rights of Deaf people. However, Black Deaf people were not allowed to become members or vote until 1965. The prevailing racial discrimination at the time prohibited them from joining not only the NAD but also other Deaf organizations and clubs.
Since 1965, Black Deaf individuals have persistently sought to collaborate with NAD and faced numerous rejections. Unfortunately, NAD chose not to address the Black Deaf community's challenges and goals, and there was a noticeable lack of representation among NAD representatives. In response to this, the leaders of the Black Deaf community established the National Black Deaf Advocate (NBDA) in 1982. This organization has been growing stronger with each passing day, advocating for the rights and needs of Black Deaf people. For more detailed information, please visit the NBDA website at www.nbda.org.
Over time, the National Association of the Deaf has made significant strides towards inclusivity and equality. The board of directors now includes Deaf people of color, marking a pivotal moment in the NAD's history.
Over time, the National Association of the Deaf has made significant strides towards inclusivity and equality. The board of directors now includes Deaf people of color, marking a pivotal moment in the NAD's history.
In 2012, as a delegate and representative of the Utah Association of the Deaf, I attended the NAD Conference, where I witnessed a heartwarming moment when the NAD formally apologized to the Black Deaf delegates representing the NBDA and NAD for past denial of equal rights based on race.
After the death of George Floyd in 2020 and the subsequent Black Lives Matter protests, the Black community has been struggling and continues to suffer the effects of persistent racial injustice. This is an opportunity for us to listen, learn, and grow. Following the Black Lives Matter movement, I learned more about Dr. Laurene Simms, a well-respected Black Deaf professor at Gallaudet University and a social justice advocate. Dr. Simms, a nationally recognized expert in ASL/English bilingual education, provided bilingual training to the first set of teachers and aids just before the establishment of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf (JMS) in 1999. Below is a snapshot of her giving a workshop presentation.
After the death of George Floyd in 2020 and the subsequent Black Lives Matter protests, the Black community has been struggling and continues to suffer the effects of persistent racial injustice. This is an opportunity for us to listen, learn, and grow. Following the Black Lives Matter movement, I learned more about Dr. Laurene Simms, a well-respected Black Deaf professor at Gallaudet University and a social justice advocate. Dr. Simms, a nationally recognized expert in ASL/English bilingual education, provided bilingual training to the first set of teachers and aids just before the establishment of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf (JMS) in 1999. Below is a snapshot of her giving a workshop presentation.
In 2018, the Indiana School for the Deaf paid tribute to one of its most outstanding alumni, Dr. Simms, by naming its elementary building after her. As a result, the first teachers and aides at JMS had the opportunity to receive training from Dr. Simms. Their knowledge from this training has become a valuable part of the school's history.
During the global Black Lives Matter movement in 2020, I ran across an article titled "Black Deaf Culture Through the Lens of Black Deaf History," which left a lasting impression on me. The article is an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn about the history and culture of the Black Deaf community, featuring biographies, arts, and entertainment. I'd like to use this platform to raise awareness about the Black Deaf community and share an informative article for everyone's benefit.
Enjoy!
Jodi Becker Kinner
Enjoy!
Jodi Becker Kinner