Raising Awareness, Celebrating Inclusion: L.A. County Honors d/Deaf Awareness Month

Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors (BOS) have officially recognized September as National d/Deaf Awareness Month and September 23 as d/Deaf Awareness Day in Los Angeles County.

With more than 800,000 residents who are d/Deaf or hard of hearing, L.A. County is home to one of the largest such communities in the nation. This year’s global theme for Deaf Awareness Month, “Beyond the Silence,” challenges misperceptions and harmful stereotypes about people who are d/Deaf, DeafBlind, or hard of hearing. It emphasizes the importance of diverse communication methods and inclusive practices that ensure all voices are heard.

“From my time in college working at the California School for the d/Deaf to my service in public office, accessibility and inclusion have always been a priority for me,” said Supervisor Mitchell. “LA County continues to stand with the global movement to celebrate the rich cultures, languages, and lived experiences of our d/Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities—and remains committed to expanding communication access and improving quality-of-life outcomes.”

Supervisor Mitchell also extended a special thank you to Commissioner Michael Agyin, who represents the Second District on the Los Angeles County Commission on Disabilities (LACCOD) and is the founder of the Compton ASL Club, and to Trish Knechtli, the first Deaf Native American social worker with the County’s Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Both leaders joined her in a commemorative video to help spotlight the importance of Deaf Awareness Month.

“Deaf Awareness Month celebrates our language, our culture, and the many contributions of deaf and hard of hearing people throughout the County of Los Angeles,” said Commissioner Agyin in the video.

Supervisor Mitchell encourages all L.A. County residents to take part in building a more inclusive community—not just in September, but year-round.

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