General Information
In January, 1998 several persons came together to discuss
how to address problems identified in the adolescent Deaf
community in Kingston, Jamaica. This mandate emerged from
the recognition and concern for the:
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Low level of educational achievement of the average
graduate from schools for the Deaf
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Apparent failure of students to maximize opportunities
provided for academic and vocational education
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Lack of visibility of the Deaf community in the wider
society
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Lack of assertiveness of the Deaf community in agitating
for advancement.
As the issues were examined, there was the realization that a
set of inter-related factors were resulting in the manifestations
observed.
The Youth Theatre Workshop is
premised on a philosophy of development which emphasizes empowerment
for independence rather than dependency and the recognition of
parents, the adult Deaf community, the general public, teachers
of the Deaf, and others as equal partners in the mission of the
project.
If we accept this philosophy, there are significant implications
for change of attitudes, especially among members of the Deaf
community.
Obstacles
In the Caribbean, and in Jamaica particularly, persons who are Deaf
are often shunned, ridiculed, and denied access to vocational and
educational opportunities. Parental neglect, society's ignorance, and
superstitions regarding deafness have not only isolated the Deaf
community, but have inhibited its emotional, economic, educational
progress.
Deaf persons are often considered as helpless and dependent, an enigma
or a curiosity. Often, they are not considered as individuals who can
achieve a much as hearing persons if given the necessary support system.
This approach affect their self-concept and their integration into all
segments of society.
Efforts Towards Change
Action is needed to disseminate and popularize the content of the
project so as to create awareness and ownership of it among all persons
and entities involved. It is a necessary foundation for achieving
acceptance, team work, and participation. If the project succeeds,
then the Deaf community will become a formidable and recognized body,
equipped with the resources to achieve its highest potential.
It is against this background that the group proposed a comprehensive
Youth Theatre Workshop
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Key strategies underlying the project are:
Literacy and Remedial Education
Reproductive Health
Vocational and Technical Training
Personal and Family Development
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Contact Information
Jamaica Association for the Deaf
9 Marescaux Road, P.O. Box 178
Kingston 5, Jamaica, West Indies
Telephone: 876-968-6781 (Voice/TTY)
Fax: 876-926-6631
E-mail: jdeafswd@cwjamaica.com
General Information
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About Us
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Youth Theatre Workshop
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Structure
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