Oklahoma Deaf Spectrum

In keeping with our mission of equality for all LGBT people, Oklahomans for Equality is excited to announce a new program for deaf individuals. Oklahoma Deaf Spectrum (ODS) was formed in October 2007 to become a new program under OkEq as a statewide alliance to establish and promote the well-being of Deaf LGBT members to encourage and promote the educational, economical, cultural enhancement, and social justice, to foster fellowship, and advance our interests as Deaf LGBT.

Fellowship and the needs to stay in touch are very important to the Deaf LGBT communities. ODS welcome all diversity and allies members to join. ODS provides monthly social outlets included activities such as American Sign Language classes, holiday events, potlucks, Deaf films, and socialize events. ODS will held monthly meetings to plan all events.

History

The deaf LGBT group has met to socialize for the last two years with the support from Communication Service for the Deaf (CSD). CSD is looking forward working closely with Equality Center staff to provide support toward ODS program.

ODS gives everyone the opportunity to meet and support one another. You are not alone. Please join us and meet some wonderful people to have a great time. For more information about the Oklahoma Deaf Spectrum, feel free to contact the new ODS coordinator Ethan Sexton.

Video Phone

Videophone is now available for the Deaf to make their free video relay calls. The Equality Center is fortunate to feature a broadband video relay service for the deaf in the David Bohnett CyberCenter. Ours is the only publicly-accessible videophone available after 5pm in the city of Tulsa. VRS, or Video Relay Service, allows deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals to make and receive telephone calls to/from any hearing person. Using a real-time video connection to an interpreter (through a TV or a PC), a deaf or hard-of-hearing individual uses the interpreter to relay the conversation between themselves and the hearing person on the other end of the call. The interpreter is involved in real–time and in complete confidence for the entire call. Call anyone: your doctor, a counselor, a hotline, call the plumber, call the family.

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Upcoming Program Slate:

• Sign Language classes in January
• Meeting Deaf LGBT groups in other cities
• Workshops/presentations
• Fund-raising events
• Participation in the Tulsa Pride & Diversity Parade and Festival