As we come to the end of a month that focuses on celebrating both our Autism community and our Deaf community, we'd like to remind you to continue to engage in opportunities to learn more and engage in discussion. 

The ADS & SDS offices have selected two films this month that we encourage watching and spending time in reflection on in honor of our peers who represent these communities. As a reminder, we are hosting a Noontime, free-hour discussion session in the Math/Psychology Bldg, Room 222 conference room on Friday, 4/28 for anyone interested in joining us in discussion and reflection. 

We hope to see you there, RSVPs are appreciated for space planning.

 https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/accessibility/events/117411

Films:  

1. "In a Different Key"- Autism documentary that centers on the experience of Autism within neurotypical communities: From Patient Zero in rural Mississippi, initial discernment with Johns Hopkins healthcare providers, history of healthcare and structural inequality, as well as hope. This film centers on people on the autism spectrum within their families and community, and is available for free through PBS. For more information and to view it, please visit the website at https://www.pbs.org/show/different-key/

Synopsis: A mother of a young adult with autism tracks down the first person ever diagnosed with autism, now an elderly man living in rural Mississippi, to learn if his life story holds promise for her own autistic son. Her journey exposes a startling record of cruelty and kindness alike, framed by forces like race, money, and privilege – but leads to hope that more communities are learning to have the backs of people on the spectrum. The documentary shows the lived experience of a diverse mix of people with autism within family, community, and transitioning toward independence.

2. "Feeling Through"- Academy Award-nominated film produced by Marlee Matlin, an American actress, and activist who is recognized as being the first Deaf performer to win an Academy Award (Best Actress, 1986). The film "Feeling Through" stars the only award-winning DeafBlind actor and the only DeafBlind member of the Screen Actors Guild.   For more information, please visit the "Feeling Through" website at https://www.feelingthrough.com/. (Please note this film is not available for free online at this time and the film organizers are accepting donations to further their activism work for accessibility and disability representation in Hollywood).