On September 12th, the St. Francis de Sales School for the Deaf (SFDS) celebrated its 65th Anniversary with the grand opening of Brooklyn’s first Deaf & DeafBlind Museum & Research Center. This groundbreaking establishment marks a significant milestone for the Deaf and DeafBlind communities. This is a dedicated space to preserve and share rich history and experiences.
Located in the heart of Brooklyn, the museum was curated by Dr. Julia Silvestri and is housed within the SFDS campus. The ceremony brought together a diverse group of attendees, including members of the press, elected officials, disability community advocates, alumni, and past and present SFDS board members, creating an atmosphere of unity and excitement.
As a DeafBlind journalist, witnessing this historic moment was both inspiring and humbling. The museum’s dedication to honoring the stories and contributions of the Deaf and DeafBlind communities is evident in every exhibit, providing visitors a unique and enlightening experience. The establishment of the museum signifies a long-awaited and well-deserved recognition for the DeafBlind community in the state of New York. This will attract visitors from around the world, as there are many who are DeafBlind that desire to visit New York and now have another reason to visit and can learn about the history of the DeafBlind community.
The exhibits cover a range of topics, including SFDS’ history, NYC Deaf/DeafBlind history, and features artwork created by talented Deaf and DeafBlind artists. The diverse collection of resources and stories housed within the museum serves as a testament to the community’s resilience and achievements. New York State’s donation of $400,000 was accepted by Executive Director Jodi Falk. The funds raised will be allocated towards developing and implementing cutting-edge accommodations, acquiring specialized equipment, and enhancing educational resources specifically designed to empower and support the DeafBlind community.
“The ribbon cutting was a milestone moment for New York City. This museum is a beautiful collection of artifacts and a living space where history, culture, and community will gather for years to come. Unveiling the museum during our 65th anniversary reflects both the legacy of SFDS and our commitment to future generations of Deaf, DeafBlind, and Deaf Disabled students,” said Falk.
Dr. Julia Silvestri shared her vision for the space, “This museum was created to honor our history and ensure that Deaf and DeafBlind voices are preserved and accessible for generations to come.”
The opening is a momentous occasion, one that not only celebrates the past but also paves the way for a more inclusive and empowering future. As the SFDS continues to make strides in educating and supporting Deaf and DeafBlind individuals, this museum will serve as a powerful symbol of our shared history, resilience, and progress.