ADAPT’s ASL Slam brings together participants from across the boroughs and is a vibrant celebration of Deaf culture and talent. The event features a wide range of performances that showcase both creative talent and raise awareness of how the Deaf community navigates their daily lives.
At ADAPT’s most recent ASL Slam Rev. Kimberly Council, Deputy Borough President of Brooklyn, kicked off the evening with a heartfelt message, thanking ADAPT for its ongoing work in the community. “Thank you, ADAPT, for the work that you’ve done and all you’ve done throughout the years,” she said in a speech prior to the show. ADAPT is incredibly grateful for the involvement and support of Rev. Council and other local ambassadors.
Throughout the event, participants from ADAPT’s day programs shared their talents, including Darrell from Stillwell Adult Learning Center, who performed an ASL poem about his love for the Yankees. He recited, “My team from the Bronx, just like me, I love them.”
Other performers, inspired by the movie Inside Out, taught the audience ASL signs for emotions represented by colors: red for anger, pink for love, green for jealousy, and yellow for happiness.
Several performers also shared personal experiences, such as struggles with communication on Access-a-Ride and the MTA, shedding light on the challenges Deaf individuals face in everyday life. Additionally, Steven from the 154th Street Adult Learning Center spoke about why learning ASL is so important, even for those who can hear. He shared his story of taking ASL classes at ADAPT to better connect with his peers, saying, “I am so happy that I can now communicate with my friends and the staff.”
Juan, a staff member from 154th Street, led a fun ASL alphabet lesson, teaching the audience how to sign letters and common objects. The evening also included a lively dance performance by participants from Elmwood Adult Learning Center.
Sam, a staff member of seven years, moderated the event and shared her thoughts on the importance of understanding Deaf culture. “The performers practiced for weeks. I am so happy to be able to teach everyone about deaf culture and our practices,” she said.
ASL interpreters were provided throughout the event for online and in-person audiences, just as they are for all ADAPT shows and community events. Because ADAPT supports individuals with a vast range of abilities, it is ensured that people with any level of hearing impairment are accommodated. If you are interested in learning more about ADAPT Community Network’s programs for people with disabilities, please contact Project Connect at projectconnect@adaptcommunitynetwork.org or 877-827-2666.
