Jeremy Daffern, an advocacy specialist with the Nebraska Commission for Deaf and Hard of Hearing, will present a program titled “Listening Differently” on October 28, 2024, from 18:00 to 20:00 at the Frey Conference Suite in the Kanter Student Center at Wayne State College. The event, which is free and open to the public, will open its doors at 17:30, and food will be provided to attendees.
In his presentation, Daffern, a graduate of Gallaudet University, will share insights based on his personal experiences as a deaf individual navigating a world primarily designed for hearing people. He emphasized the importance of understanding and empathy, stating, “Being deaf or hard of hearing is an experience I can never completely understand. Perhaps learning from people who have successfully navigated an increasingly complex world 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.”
Daffern will be joined by ASL interpreter Meghann Cassidy, as he conveys his journey of resilience and hope. His discussion aims to foster dialogue about the challenges faced by the deaf and hard of hearing communities. The program will also include opportunities for audience interaction, allowing attendees to ask questions and engage with the content presented.
The event will conclude with a unique performance where participants will “listen differently” to the members of the Wayne State Department of Music. This aspect of the program aims to highlight the varying ways people can engage with music and sound, enriching the overall experience for attendees.
The presentation is sponsored by Wayne State’s public and global health honors students, the university’s service-learning program, and the Nebraska Commission for Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
For more information about this event, interested individuals can contact Barbara Engebretsen at Wayne State College by calling 402-375-7044 or emailing [email protected].
