07/05/2026
At the 58th Biennial National Association of the Deaf Conference in San Francisco from June 30 to July 4, 2026, we were reminded that Asian Deaf representation matters at every level of the Deaf community.
During the Council of Representatives meeting, NADC counted 5 Asian delegates out of 129 total delegates. This shows why representation is important in national spaces where major decisions are discussed, debated, and voted on. Asian Deaf voices deserve to be seen, included, and respected in these conversations.
Much of the Council of Representatives meeting focused on proposed bylaws amendments. Because those discussions took significant time, there was limited time to discuss Community-Driven Commitments, resolutions, and National Association of the Deaf Board reports. This reminds us of the need for better time management, clearer procedures, and balanced discussion in future meetings.
NADC also wants to recognize the Bay Area Asian Deaf Association for its meaningful presence during the conference week. Its lion dance performance during the Cultural Extravaganza proudly showcased Asian Deaf culture, identity, and celebration on a national Deaf community stage. The Bay Area Asian Deaf Association also helped host Deaf Community Night Out in Chinatown with community, entertainment, live performances, and Asian-themed celebration.
NADC recognizes Dr. Lina Hou for highlighting AANHPI Deaf education and employment outcomes, Universeways for creating 3D-printed National Association of the Deaf awards, and Laura Kim for her service as National Association of the Deaf Region 4 Board Member from 2022 to 2026.
NADC also gives sincere thanks to Min Cho for serving as a delegate at the National Association of the Deaf Conference and for supporting Asian Deaf representation.
Our community may be small in number, but our culture, leadership, research, creativity, service, and voices matter.
