A. Jean Brugger Foundation has launched an innovative Nicaraguan Sign Language (NSL) course as part of its commitment to inclusion and accessibility. Aimed at its scholarship recipients, former professional scholarship recipients, and collaborators, this free program seeks to provide them with tools to communicate effectively with deaf people, fostering an environment of empathy and respect. With two hearing-impaired students within its community, the foundation reaffirms its mission to promote equity and participation for all, regardless of their abilities.
The course, which is held at the foundation’s facilities twice a month and under the supervision of the social programs office, has generated a positive impact among students and collaborators. Kelia Hernández is the course facilitator who is a teacher and has experience in sign language learning education for children and adults.
During the third meeting, held on Saturday afternoon, participants reviewed the alphabet and began with the topic of courtesy rules in sign language. Karelia highlighted the dedication of the students and how, by participating in these types of initiatives, they are contributing a «grain of sand» to society to build a more inclusive future.
One of the participants in the course, Katerine Suárez, a collaborator of the foundation, mentioned that «It is interesting how these people with disabilities strive to communicate. Inclusion is important, being part of them, sharing with them. They are happy, hard-working people, and despite everything, they fight to get ahead.» These words reflect the spirit of the course, which not only teaches a language, but also creates bonds of understanding and respect between people with and without disabilities.
The third meeting of this course featured the special participation of Jayson Dangla, a 23-year-old deaf young man. Jason represented an inspiring figure for the participants in the course, who learned not only about sign language, but also about the value of persevering in the face of challenges. Jason, using his sign language, took the opportunity to congratulate the deaf community on their day, highlighting their efforts to get ahead in a world where inclusion is still a constant challenge.
This course only has 6 sessions since it is a pilot project, says Ingrid Collado, coordinator of the community service program. With these actions, the A. Jean Brugger Foundation reaffirms its commitment to inclusion, fostering empathy and respect for linguistic diversity. This Sign Language course is a powerful tool that allows students and collaborators to become agents of change, contributing to the construction of a more just and inclusive society for all.
World Day of People with Hearing Impairment, which is commemorated every September 28, is a key date to remember the importance of raising awareness about the barriers faced by the deaf community. This day recognizes the struggle and effort of millions of people who, despite the difficulties, seek to fully integrate into society. These types of courses, such as the one offered by the A. Jean Brugger Foundation, are an example of how small actions can make a big difference in the lives of deaf people, opening doors to inclusion.
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