Utah's Connection
to Black Deaf History
Written by Jodi Christel Becker
Published in 2020
Updated in 2025
Published in 2020
Updated in 2025
Author’s Note
I have always been fascinated by Black history, a passion that was shaped by my high school relationship with an extraordinary Black individual. This curiosity leads me to reflect on two remarkable figures in the Utah Deaf community: Dr. Robert G. Sanderson and W. David Mortensen. Like many communities, the Utah Deaf community faces its own unique challenges and achievements, and these leaders remind me of the iconic duo of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. Both were phenomenal leaders with distinct styles that left a lasting impact. Their approaches to advocacy and social change, while different, were both driven by a deep commitment to justice and equality. Similarly, Dr. Sanderson and David Mortensen have used their unique voices and experiences to uplift the Deaf community in Utah, inspiring others to embrace their identity and fight for their rights.
Happy exploring!
Jodi Christel Becker
Happy exploring!
Jodi Christel Becker
On this day in 1964, Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, met for the first time, while attending a Senate debate on the Civil Rights Act. Source: African & Black History African Archives
Like Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK), Dr. Robert G. Sanderson excelled as a diplomat. His remarkable ability to listen and support those around him, along with his kindness and understanding, made a profound difference. It is inspiring how both Dr. Sanderson and MLK recognized the importance of educating others about equality issues. They both used their Ph.D. degrees to amplify their voices, ensuring that people would listen and engage in meaningful conversations.
Meanwhile, David was a bold activist who channeled his energy similarly to MLK by organizing rallies and advocating for meaningful legislative changes. David's lifelong dedication to social justice inspired those around him and encouraged a new generation of activists to rise and make their voices heard. Together, they forged a powerful movement that sought to dismantle systemic inequalities and promote a brighter, more equitable future for all. Their collective efforts left a lasting impact!
Like Malcolm X, David was a fearless advocate for the Utah Deaf community, collaborating with Dr. Sanderson to create meaningful change. Their efforts have had an ongoing influence on the Utah Deaf community, significantly improving the lives of its members. The distinct leadership styles of David and Robert complemented one another, resulting in a dynamic partnership that effectively addressed the accessibility needs of the Utah Deaf community. David succeeded Dr. Sanderson by intensifying advocacy efforts, and together, they accomplished significant milestones, such as establishing the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center, expanding interpreting services, and advocating for crucial legislation.
Their partnership exemplified the strength of teamwork in the civil rights and accessibility movements, with their mutual support being vital to their success in advocacy within the Utah Association of the Deaf and the broader Utah Deaf community. David's dedication was also inspired by Dr. Sanderson's groundbreaking work, reflecting a shared commitment to civil rights similar to that of Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. Their contributions have profoundly influenced my understanding of civil rights and the importance of advocacy. I admire their leadership and the passion they brought to their cause!
The work of these individuals has significantly shaped my understanding of civil rights and the importance of advocacy. I admire their leadership and the passion they brought to their cause. Their steadfast devotion inspires me to actively engage in advocacy efforts and support underrepresented communities. I aspire to continue their legacy by raising awareness and fostering understanding of the challenges faced by the Deaf community in Utah and beyond. Beyond this, I aim to collaborate with local organizations to create inclusive programs that promote accessibility and empower individuals within the Utah Deaf community. By amplifying their voices and advocating for their rights, I hope to contribute to a more equitable society where everyone can thrive.
Meanwhile, David was a bold activist who channeled his energy similarly to MLK by organizing rallies and advocating for meaningful legislative changes. David's lifelong dedication to social justice inspired those around him and encouraged a new generation of activists to rise and make their voices heard. Together, they forged a powerful movement that sought to dismantle systemic inequalities and promote a brighter, more equitable future for all. Their collective efforts left a lasting impact!
Like Malcolm X, David was a fearless advocate for the Utah Deaf community, collaborating with Dr. Sanderson to create meaningful change. Their efforts have had an ongoing influence on the Utah Deaf community, significantly improving the lives of its members. The distinct leadership styles of David and Robert complemented one another, resulting in a dynamic partnership that effectively addressed the accessibility needs of the Utah Deaf community. David succeeded Dr. Sanderson by intensifying advocacy efforts, and together, they accomplished significant milestones, such as establishing the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center, expanding interpreting services, and advocating for crucial legislation.
Their partnership exemplified the strength of teamwork in the civil rights and accessibility movements, with their mutual support being vital to their success in advocacy within the Utah Association of the Deaf and the broader Utah Deaf community. David's dedication was also inspired by Dr. Sanderson's groundbreaking work, reflecting a shared commitment to civil rights similar to that of Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. Their contributions have profoundly influenced my understanding of civil rights and the importance of advocacy. I admire their leadership and the passion they brought to their cause!
The work of these individuals has significantly shaped my understanding of civil rights and the importance of advocacy. I admire their leadership and the passion they brought to their cause. Their steadfast devotion inspires me to actively engage in advocacy efforts and support underrepresented communities. I aspire to continue their legacy by raising awareness and fostering understanding of the challenges faced by the Deaf community in Utah and beyond. Beyond this, I aim to collaborate with local organizations to create inclusive programs that promote accessibility and empower individuals within the Utah Deaf community. By amplifying their voices and advocating for their rights, I hope to contribute to a more equitable society where everyone can thrive.
W. David Mortensen
The Civil Rights Act of 1964
and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 Promote Inclusivity in the National Association of the Deaf
and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 Promote Inclusivity in the National Association of the Deaf
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: UAD Bulletin, Winter 1965
The National Black Deaf Advocates
Organization is Established
Organization is Established
Although the National Association of the Deaf was established in 1880 to advocate for the rights of Deaf individuals, Black Deaf individuals were not allowed to join or vote in the organization because of racism.
Since then, the Black Deaf community has worked tirelessly to collaborate with the NAD despite facing numerous rejections. In response to the NAD's reluctance to address their concerns and the ongoing lack of representation, the community founded the National Black Deaf Advocates (NBDA) in 1982. The NBDA has since become a crucial organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of Black Deaf individuals and promoting equality and inclusivity. For more information, visit the NBDA website at www.nbda.org.
Over time, the NAD has made significant strides toward inclusivity and equality, now including Deaf people of color on its board of directors. This progress highlights the NAD's commitment to a more inclusive future and inspires ongoing advocacy for equality in society.
Since then, the Black Deaf community has worked tirelessly to collaborate with the NAD despite facing numerous rejections. In response to the NAD's reluctance to address their concerns and the ongoing lack of representation, the community founded the National Black Deaf Advocates (NBDA) in 1982. The NBDA has since become a crucial organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of Black Deaf individuals and promoting equality and inclusivity. For more information, visit the NBDA website at www.nbda.org.
Over time, the NAD has made significant strides toward inclusivity and equality, now including Deaf people of color on its board of directors. This progress highlights the NAD's commitment to a more inclusive future and inspires ongoing advocacy for equality in society.
Robert G. Sanderson (left) and W. David Mortensen (right) at the Utah Association for the Deaf Conference, June 18, 1995
Robert G. Sanderson talking to W. David Mortensen at the Utah Association for the Deaf Conference, June 18, 1995
Dr. Raymond Merritt Highlights the Intersection
Between the Deaf Race and Deaf History
Between the Deaf Race and Deaf History
I was delighted to see a photo regarding the intersection of the Deaf race and Deaf History created by Dr. Raymond Merritt, a Deaf individual, on his Facebook page on March 20, 2025. While working on Dr. Robert G. Sanderson's biography for a state publication in 2024, I stumbled upon the 'Denial of Equal Rights to Deaf Women and Black Deaf Individuals' resolution from the 2012 Conference Resolutions on the NAD website. This resolution, a significant document, highlights the systemic discrimination faced by Deaf women and Black Deaf individuals. It also underscores the historical injustices and is a crucial piece of information in the fight for equality in the Deaf community.
A story tip that highlights the intersection of Deaf race and Deaf History, created by Dr. Raymond Merritt
Dr. Merritt's recent Facebook post, where he openly discussed the racial segregation policies and structural norms affecting the Black Deaf community within the broader Deaf community, addresses a crucial and significant topic. His insights are invaluable, and I am truly excited about the possibility of him writing a book on this subject. It would be a remarkable contribution to the field!
Dr. Raymond Merritt. Souce: Linkedin.com
The National Association of the Deaf
Formally Apologizes to the Black Deaf Delegates
at the Conference
Formally Apologizes to the Black Deaf Delegates
at the Conference
As a delegate for the Utah Association of the Deaf at the 2012 NAD Conference, I had the opportunity to witness a touching moment when Dr. Bobbie Beth Scoggins, then-president of the NAD, issued a formal apology to the Black Deaf delegates for the historical denial of equal rights based on race. This apology, a significant step towards acknowledging and rectifying past injustices, was included in the document titled 'Denial of Equal Rights to Deaf Women and Black Deaf Individuals,' which was part of the 2012 Conference Resolutions, an important document on the NAD website.
Dr. Bobbie Beth Scoggins. Source: Texas Lone Star
A Recognition of Dr. Laurene Simms:
A Black Advocate for the Deaf Community
A Black Advocate for the Deaf Community
In the wake of George Floyd's death in 2020 and the ensuing Black Lives Matter protests, the Black community continues to grapple with the enduring effects of racial injustice. This moment allows us to listen, learn, and grow. In the aftermath of the Black Lives Matter movement, I delved into the inspiring work of Dr. Laurene Simms, a highly esteemed Black Deaf professor at Gallaudet University and a champion for social justice. Dr. Simms, a nationally renowned expert in ASL/English bilingual education, offered bilingual training to the first group of teachers and aides just before the founding of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf in 1999. Her significant contribution to the movement is truly remarkable and serves as an inspiration to us all. Below is a photo of her conducting a workshop presentation.
Dr. Laurene Simms, Gallaudet Professor. Source: Gallaudet.edu
In 2018, the Indiana School for the Deaf celebrated one of its incredible alums, Dr. Simms, by naming its elementary building in her honor! This special tribute shows how much Dr. Simms has done for the Black Deaf community. Thanks to her dedication, the first teachers and aides at the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf were able to receive valuable training from her. The knowledge they gained has become an essential part of the school's history, and we are all so thankful for Dr. Simms and her outstanding contributions!
Dr. Laurene Simms presented to JMS's first teachers and aides during in-service training before the school opened in 1999
A Rich Resource of the Black Deaf Community
There is a fantastic resource through Gallaudet University that centers on the Black Deaf community! This platform is filled with valuable insights into their rich history and culture. It includes a variety of organizations, publications, books, films, and videos. I'm excited to use this resource to help raise awareness and share these enlightening materials with everyone. Let's spread knowledge together!
Sugar Free Truth of Facebook, March 11, 2024
