About Seattle ASL Social
About Us
We are YOU.
This group doesn't exist without all the people who show up, connect, and participate in this community.
ALL ARE WELCOME!
This group was created by enthusiastic ASL students who wished to get more practice with the language, and further their appreciation for--and immersion in--Deaf culture. The hearing organizers of the group/social platforms represented here recognize and affirm that they are guests of an established, rich Deaf culture, and commit themselves to being a part of the effort to support and elevate the voices of d/Deaf and HoH communities.
OUR MINI-MANIFESTO
RESPECT - Treat everyone with the same respect and assumption of good will as you would a good friend. We come together to learn and support each other. Our communications should reflect that. Healthy debate is welcome, but always lead with kindness.
SAFE SPACE - Everyone is welcome; everyone is celebrated. Bigotry, racism, sexism, ableism, and any form of hate speech will not be tolerated. We are all works in progress, and learning to be better human beings. As part of this, many of us may be unlearning what we were taught/internalized. If someone expresses themselves in a way that breaks this rule, we will endeavor to call-in and offer a chance to rephrase and make amends as appropriate. Doubling down will result in removal from the group.
DEAF FIRST - Hearing members, remember we are guests of the Deaf community, and should endeavor to elevate and defer to Deaf voices. Whenever possible, classes, events, and online resources from Deaf instructors and content creators should be given priority.
NO SPAM - No promotions/spam in any of our virtual or in-person meeting spaces. Keep any events or links on-topic, toward the pursuit of learning ASL, Deaf Culture, and promoting/supporting the Deaf Community, locally and beyond. (Exception is the off-topic text channel. Anything goes except for spam!)
PRIVACY - Respect members’ privacy. Trust and safety is paramount to a strong community. Authentic, expressive discussions make groups great, but may be sensitive and private. Personal details should remain in the group.
VOICES-OFF - When an event is listed as voices-off, please make every effort to adhere to this request. Particularly when d/Deaf participants are present, it is respectful to refrain from using your voice in these shared spaces.
Inclusivity and Diversity: Systems of power, privilege, and oppression have traditionally created barriers for persons and groups with particular identities, ages, abilities, and histories. We pledge to do all we can to replace such barriers with ever-widening circles of solidarity and mutual respect. We are a come-one-come-all community, which sees and respects each individual for who they are. We pledge to be actively BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and Trans Safe.
Deaf First: Seattle ASL Social strives to be a Deaf First space. Hearing members, remember we are guests of the Deaf community, and should endeavor to elevate and defer to Deaf voices. Whenever possible, classes, events, and online resources from Deaf instructors and content creators should be given priority.
Land Acknowledgement: Seattle ASL Social acknowledges that we gather on the unceded, traditional land of the Coast Salish Peoples, specifically the first people of Seattle, the Duwamish People, original stewards of the land, past and present. We honor with gratitude the land itself and the Duwamish Tribe.