Saturday, January 24, 2009
Summary/Abstract of Workshop - This presentation will discuss the historical, cultural and lexical variation in Black signing – that is, “Do Black signers share the same signs for a concept or do they have different signs for the same concept as White signers?” Regional differences have been looked at by Woodward (1976) and Woodward (in progress.) In addition to Woodward’s study, the historical and cultural basis for differences in signs will be discussed. Historically, the roots of Black sign language developed because of societal attitudes and educational inequalities, especially in Southern Black schools where dual educational systems existed for several years. Culturally, the issue is whether a Black/Deaf community actually exists that is distinct from both the Black community and the Deaf community. Within this double immersion, does one identify more with the Black, Deaf or Black/Deaf community? Finally, a comparison and demonstration of signs will be presented according to region, age, and economic backgrounds of signers. The issue of “code-switching” within this particular group will also be explored. Take-home tips and tools will also be available after the presentation.
Since 1995, Donald has been the Program Director for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS) in Indianapolis, IN. An alumnus of Indiana School for the Deaf, he studied at National Technology Institute for the Deaf (NTID) and received his Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology from Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis (IUPUI.)
In 1992, Donald founded and served as President of Indianapolis Black Deaf Advocates (IBDA.) From 1994 to 1997, Donald was the Editor-in-Chief for the National Black Deaf Advocates (NBDA) Network. He was former treasurer and served as Chairperson for the 16th Annual NBDA Conference when it was held in Indianapolis in 1998.
Donald Tinsley is a veteran community advocate. He has served on the Governor’s Planning Council for People with Disabilities (GPC), and was Chairperson of the Relay Indiana Consumer Advisory Committee. He held numerous positions for the Indiana Association of the Deaf (IAD) including President, Vice-President, and board member. As a notable volunteer, Donald received awards from both NBDA and the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) for his many accomplishments and excellence in leadership.
In addition to his community involvement, he has been an ordained minister since 1991 when he graduated from Aenon Bible College in Indianapolis.
As a minister, Donald established and directed several deaf ministries for churches in Indiana and Tennessee.
Workshops will be taught in ASL. No interpreter provided. Everyone Welcome !
Polk Conference Center, Anixter Center, 2023 N. Clybourn, Chicago, IL 60614
(Use rear parking lot entrance)
9a – 4p, Lunch 12p-1p
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Member/State Chapter/ITP Student - $40
Non-member - $55
($40 admission requires proof)
Seating is limited to 40 people. REGISTER EARLY. Workshop Date: Saturday, January 24, 2009. No refunds after January 22nd
Send checks payable to: IRID, c/o Tim Mahoney – PDC/Secretary,
1635 W. Pratt, # 2-South,
Chicago, IL 60626-4131
Questions? E-mail Tim Mahoney: AustinCop@aol.com