2026 House Resolution 353

Whereas, As the deaf population includes a wide range of individuals, from those who were born profoundly deaf and use American Sign Language (ASL) as a primary means of communication to those with a degree of hearing loss who use hearing aids or other forms of amplification and communication modes; and

Whereas, According to the Michigan Division on Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing, at least 7.4 percent of the Michigan population identify as deaf, deafblind or hard of hearing; and

Whereas, The state of Michigan benefits from the many contributions of deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing residents throughout the state; and

Whereas, All of Michigan is enriched by the diverse and unique heritage, language, and culture of the deaf community; and

Whereas, People who identify themselves as deaf belong to a cultural and linguistic community with shared language, social norms, rules of behavior, and history; and

Whereas, It is important to ensure that Michigan’s deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing individuals have equal access to the many benefits and opportunities available to hearing individuals to live, work, play, and communicate in Michigan; and

Whereas, To commemorate the first congress of the World Federation of the Deaf, which was held in September of 1951, the state of Michigan recognizes the entire month of September as Deaf Awareness Month; and

Whereas, Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing face unique barriers and disparities in access to communication, employment, education, and public services, and it is incumbent upon society to foster inclusivity, ensure accessibility, and uphold the civil rights of all Michiganders, regardless of hearing status; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare September 2026 as Deaf Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.