speaker-photo

Reginald “Reggie” Bess

Presenter

Reggie Bess was born in Eastpoint, Georgia. From pre-K to twelfth grade, he attended public schools. He graduated from Clarkston High School in 2001. He earned a bachelor's degree in accounting and mathematics from Clark Atlanta University (CAU) in 2006. He received his master degree in Deaf Education from Valdosta State University (VSU) in 2014. He became a highly qualified teacher at Atlanta Area School for the Deaf in 2018. (AASD). He currently holds certificates in middle school mathematics and Deaf Education. He was a math teacher for many years. He worked as an AASD behavior specialist. He is a doctoral student at Gallaudet University, where he studies Deaf Critical Learners with a focus on educational leadership and politics. He is currently a mathematics and first-year seminar instructor. He is also a black ambassador specialist for the Center for Black Deaf Studies and a life coach for the men's basketball team at Gallaudet University.

1:45 PM

Friday 21st July

Linguistic Racism: Black Deaf Experience

JSAC 1011

 

Abstract: In this inspiring lecture, I aim to empower Black Deaf individuals to embrace their unique language skills and accents. Language learning can happen in various environments, and I encourage celebrating linguistic diversity. Challenging the dominance of ASL standards for social interaction and academics, I strive to break free from oppressive judgments and stereotypes surrounding Black Deaf people's intelligence. Let's unite to promote a more inclusive and accepting Black Deaf community.