On March 8, ASL Panthers, an Honors College student organization created at Florida International University (FIU), will be hosting an American Sign Language (ASL) Poetry Event at the Modesto Maidique Campus at 11200 S.W. 8 Street. This inclusive and equal communication access event involves volunteers from the deaf community performing poetry and acting in complete silence using ASL.
Sharon Zajac, the president and founder of ASL Panthers, was born and raised in Miami Lakes. Zajac credits her passion for ASL to her experiences at Miami Lakes Educational Center (MLEC). She now wishes to make a difference at FIU.
“The deaf community at FIU is incredibly small. With this event, which will be the first of its kind, we hope that we promote open communication at FIU among all communities, as well as awareness for people that have their own distinct and beautiful language and culture,” said Zajac.
The ASL Poetry Event is outdoors, and everyone is welcome to join with free admission and snacks. Different deaf organizations and interpreting services are invited to participate around the area, and are expected to have giveaways.
“Regardless of your level of knowledge in ASL, this event is a wonderful opportunity to network with others and simply learn about other ways of seeing the world and communicating,” Zajac added.
The ASL Poetry Event will be held on Thursday March 8 from noon until 2 p.m. at the Modesto Maidique Campus in the lawns behind the Graham Center.
“The ultimate goal of ASL Panthers and this event is to bring awareness to the surrounding communities that FIU is a deaf-friendly campus” expressed Zajac. “We are working very hard to grow and welcome all individuals from all backgrounds, and look towards making inclusiveness one of FIU’s core values.”