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, 2023, from 18:00 to 20:00 at the Frey Conference Suite within the Kanter Student Center at Wayne State College. The event, which is free and open to the public, will begin with doors opening at 17:30, and complimentary food will be provided.
Daffern, a Gallaudet University alumnus, brings a wealth of experience, including international development work in Latin America. His presentation aims to bridge understanding between individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and those who can hear. “Being deaf or hard of hearing is an experience I can never completely understand,” he stated. “Perhaps learning from people who have successfully navigated an increasingly complex world designed for people who do hear 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.”
The evening will feature Daffern alongside ASL interpreter Meghann Cassidy. Together, they will share insights about resilience and hope in a world that often poses challenges for those with hearing impairments. Attendees can expect an engaging discussion that includes facilitated conversations, questions, and resources aimed at fostering deeper understanding and connection.
As the event concludes, participants will have the opportunity to “listen differently” to members of the Wayne State Department of Music, enhancing the overall experience and emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in communication.
The program is sponsored by Wayne State’s public and global health honors students, the college’s service-learning program, and the Nebraska Commission for Deaf and Hard of Hearing. For further inquiries, interested individuals can contact Barbara Engebretsen at Wayne State College at 402-375-7044 or via email at [email protected].
This initiative highlights the importance of inclusivity and understanding within community interactions, aiming to foster a more connected and empathetic environment for all.
