Deaf Centre Manitoba Inc.
INTRODUCTION
Deaf Centre Manitoba (DCM) Inc. is a non-profit Charitable organization which recognizes the value of Deaf Culture and American Sign Language, it called ASL. The purpose of the organization is to coordinate and/or provide resources, and programs that enhance the development of the Deaf community.
PHILOSOPHY
As an organization, we recognize that members of the Deaf Community share a common culture based on a common language (American Sign Language), common values, and common understandings based upon shared experience as a minority group. Acceptance of Deaf Culture provides a positive and valuable foundation for the self-esteem and identity of Deaf, Deaf Blind and Hard of hearing people. We believe that Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of hearing people themselves are able to determine their own needs and chart their future paths.
We believe that community and individual well-being is fostered by participation in decision-making in one's own day to day activities and by being independent and valued.
We believe that ASL is a language to be encouraged, respected and valued and that the organization is committed to operating bilingual (ASL/English) and bicultural programs and services.
We believe that people of all ages, both Deaf, Deaf-Blind, Hard of hearing and hearing, can live and work together in harmony and benefit from each other's interests, perspectives and experiences.
We believe that Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of hearing voluntary organizations are extremely valuable for the fulfillment of individuals, for the development of community and for the opportunity for self-determination, and role models; and therefore the organization is committed to supporting and encouraging these organizations.
DEFINITION OF THE DEAF COMMUNITY
The Deaf Community consists of people who are culturally Deaf; people who are Hard of hearing, deafened or Deaf-Blind; and hearing people who through family, personal relationships or work are active in the Deaf Community. ASL is the principal language used by members of the Deaf Community. Membership in the Deaf Community is not an individual decision, but rather is acknowledged by the Deaf Community at large or major segments therein.
OBJECTIVES
- To provide liaison to DCM building management.
- To manage Deaf-related offices, meetings, resources, and cultural.
- To promote knowledge and understanding of Deaf Culture, Deaf experience, and ASL in both the Deaf, Hard of hearing, Deaf -Blind communities.
- To encourage cooperation and communication amongst various Deaf, Deaf-Blind, Hard of hearing and Deaf-related organizations.
- To initiate or encourage actions which promote leadership, pride and independence in the Deaf Community.
- To develop and provide information, workshops and other resources that respond to the needs of the Deaf Community and to the need for Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of hearing person.
