As we recognize transparency is of utmost importance, we wanted to provide the community with an update on the steps we are taking to address the systemic racism the Black community faces.
We have been in continued dialogue with the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) to better understand their ongoing partnership with the National Black Deaf Advocates (NBDA), as well as the NAD’s Diversity Strategy Team’s upcoming plans. We want to maximize opportunities to effectively eradicate systemic racism that exists today.
Last, but not least, in recognizing we must strengthen our relationship with the Chicagoland Black Deaf Advocates (CLBDA) and the Illinois Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) community, we opened up channels of communication with CLBDA to reiterate our commitment in standing with and behind the CLBDA in addressing the social, health, and civil rights for Black individuals within the Deaf community.
If you have any questions or recommendations, please do not hesitate to contact the IAD Executive Board at eb@iadeaf.org.
