On October 28, 2023, from 18:00 to 20:00, advocacy specialist Jeremy Daffern will present a workshop titled “Listening Differently” at the Frey Conference Suite in the Kanter Student Center at Wayne State College. This event is free and open to the public, with doors opening at 17:30. Attendees will be offered food as part of the experience.
Daffern, who works for the Nebraska Commission for Deaf and Hard of Hearing, emphasizes the significance of understanding the experiences of those who are deaf or hard of hearing. “Being deaf or hard of hearing is an experience I can never completely understand,” he stated. “Perhaps learning from people who have successfully navigated an increasingly complex world that is designed for people who do hear can help us ‘walk a while’ not in their shoes, but side by side, so that we can be better friends with all our neighbors.”
Insights from a Personal Journey
As an alumnus of Gallaudet University, Daffern brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the workshop. His background includes international development work in Latin America, which further enriches his perspective on communication and inclusivity. Accompanying him will be Meghann Cassidy, an American Sign Language interpreter, who will facilitate communication throughout the event.
During the workshop, Daffern will share his personal journey as a deaf individual. He aims to highlight themes of resilience and hope in a world that can often be challenging for those with hearing impairments. Participants will engage in conversations, ask questions, and receive resources to enhance their understanding of the subject.
Engaging with the Community
The event will conclude with a segment where participants will “listen differently” to members of the Wayne State Department of Music. This interactive approach underscores the importance of community involvement and the shared experience of learning.
This workshop is a collaborative effort, sponsored by Wayne State public and global health honors students, the college’s service-learning program, and the Nebraska Commission for Deaf and Hard of Hearing. For those interested in learning more about the event, Barbara Engebretsen can be contacted at Wayne State College at 402-375-7044 or via email at [email protected].
