On July 22 Friday at 7 pm there was a Vigil at the AG Bell Association headquarters - The Volta Laboratory and Bureau. During this vigil a few pieces of blue painters trim tape were placed over some words on the Volta Bureau plaque so that the words Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing could read as Alexander Graham Bell Association for the ... Hearing
Later that evening Sean Gerlis - National Association of the Deaf (NAD) designated representative for the AFA rally and the AFA meeting with the Dept of Education posted on facebook and tweeted:
“On behalf of Bobbie Beth Scoggins, Prez of NAD & myself, we NAD do not condone this behavior from @endaudism to desecrate AGB's building.”
July 23 Saturday morning AFA sent an email to NAD CEO Howard Rosenblum and
CCed Sean Gerlis and Dr. Bobbie Beth Scoggins explaining the incorrectness and inappropriateness of the term "descrate" and that no defacing took place. We also requested a public apology.
On the Evening of July 27 Wed we received an apology from Dr. Scoggins, NAD president, and we asked if we could share this reply with the public. In the evening of July 29 Fri we received a reply from Dr. Scoggins that it was fine to do so. Here is the NAD's reply below.
We look forward to future activism and advocacy as we work collectively to combat audism and ensure equality and justice.
Let Freedom Roll,
Audism Free America
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On Wed, Jul 27, 2011 at 7:24 PM, Bobbie Beth Scoggins
Hi cherished AFA Members,
This is to let you know that the NAD was pleased to be present at the rally, and to support your cause in principle. It is imperative that all deaf children grow up with and benefit from American Sign Language in their education, as well as in their social and identity development. We look forward to continuing the mutual advocating on this issue with you.
I sincerely apologize for any confusion that may have resulted from the unintended use of "desecration." We respect your right to express your freedom of speech, and ask that you respect the NAD and its position that we do not engage or participate in any activities that will affect the property of others.
Our mission, vision and values are strong and consistent with what you are trying to do. We hope that both the AFA and the NAD can move forward with our collective work to advocate for all deaf children and their right to acquisition of American Sign Language.
Thank you,
Bobbie Beth Scoggins, NAD President
