Synergy: Ableism

Ableism is discrimination and prejudice against people who are perceived to have disabilities. This includes stereotypes that characterize an individual or group as inferior to those without the ability, skill, or characteristic. For instance, while some people perceive deafness as a barrier, others do not.

Read the recently published work of historical fiction for youth, then learn more at the website:

SHOW ME A SIGN by Ann Clare LeZotte tells the story of a young girl living on Martha’s Vineyard in the 19th century. Like some other English settlers who live on the island, Mary is deaf and communicates with her friends and family using sign language. When a scientist kidnaps Mary as a test subject in his quest to find the cause for what he calls her “infirmity”, she must find her way home.

Pair this work of historical fiction with the recently published “super powered edition” of the Newbery Honor Book graphic memoir El Deaf by Cece Bell.

HISTORY THROUGH DEAF EYES is a web-based project from Gallaudet University. The project includes an online exhibition, documentary, and educational resources. The project explores 200 years of Deaf culture in America and examines perspectives on what it means to be deaf.

To learn more, go to https://gallaudet.edu/history-through-deaf-eyes.

ARC courtesy of Scholastic.