Nominations Sought for Annual Deaf Culture Awards Bookmark and Share

April 2, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 2, 2015 CONTACT: Nancy Melanson 623-7958 (voice); 623-7998 (TTY) MEDIA CONTACT: Julie Rabinowitz 621-5009

Award presentation highlights Deaf Culture Week in September

AUGUSTA?The Maine Commission for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Late Deafened seeks nominations for the annual awards presented during the state?s Deaf Culture Week celebration. The 2015 tea in celebration of Deaf Culture Week will take place on Thursday, September 17, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the State House Hall of Flags.

?People who are deaf or have a hearing loss are and should be engaged in both Maine?s culture and economy,? said Governor Paul R. LePage. ?The awards at the Annual Tea highlight their many contributions and remind us of the dignity and power of every individual. Maine needs and values the participation and leadership of this community.?

The Commission seeks nominees for the following five awards:

The Promoting of American Sign Language, Deaf Culture and Deaf People Award is given to a person who worked to improve Maine?s Deaf community through leadership by promoting American Sign Language, Deaf Culture or Deaf People.

The Outstanding Citizenship Award is given to a person who is a leader in the Deaf community.

The Citizenship Youth Award is given to a student who is a leader in school and the Deaf community.

The Ginny Hewes Advocate for the Needs of the Deaf Community Award is given to a person or organization that advocates for the needs of the Deaf, hard-of-hearing and late-deafened individuals in Maine.

The Special Commendation Award is given to an individual or agency whose activities in and with the Deaf community deserves recognition.

The list of the recipients of the annual Tea Awards to Date, the Annual Tea Awards 2015 Invitation and the Annual Tea Awards 2015 Nomination Ballot are available at http://www.maine.gov/rehab/dod/index.shtml .

The State of Maine provides equal opportunity in employment and programs. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities on request.

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