Through Deaf Eyes Book Report

The publication of Through Deaf Eyes: A Photographic History of an American Community is a result of the landmark photographic exhibition of archival documents presented by the Smithsonian Institution in 2001 and the recent broadcast of a documentary film by the Public Broadcasting Service in March of this year. In addition to the viewing of the touring exhibition by more than 400,000 people and the broadcasting of the documentary film on the national network, the story of the Deaf community has touched the four corners of America and beyond. Public awareness of the historical struggles and triumphs of Deaf people has increased because of the impact of mass media.

This book, featuring more than 200 photographs, depicts the lives and experiences of Deaf people under the influence of American norms, values, and perceptions during different historical periods. Segregation existed in America, and different groups, particularly women and people of color, were denied equal rights. Deaf people also did not cross racial and gender lines for much of our history. As stated by the authors, the Deaf community did not exist in a vacuum, and our views were identical to those of the larger society.
As one would expect, struggles to preserve sign language, drive automobiles, obtain employment in private and government sectors, access information, recognize American Sign Language, be treated equally, and preserve the right to determine their own destiny strengthened the cohesiveness of the Deaf community over the years. At the same time, the growing diversity within the Deaf community no longer provided consensus or universal views on issues related to educational placements and technological advancements such as cochlear implantation. It is too early to discuss these issues from a historical standpoint,