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Across Texas, individuals who are DeafBlind enrich our communities through their talents, leadership, and contributions. DeafBlind Awareness Week is a time to celebrate these accomplishments, raise awareness about the experiences of people who are DeafBlind, and highlight the resources and supports available to help Texans who are DeafBlind live, learn, work, and participate fully in community life.
Observed annually during the last week of June, DeafBlind Awareness Week includes June 27, the birthday of Helen Keller, one of the most recognized advocates who was DeafBlind. The observance encourages greater understanding of DeafBlindness, a unique disability that combines varying degrees of hearing and vision loss and affects how individuals access information, communicate, and navigate the world around them.
People who are DeafBlind are students, employees, entrepreneurs, advocates, artists, family members, and community leaders. With appropriate accommodations, assistive technology, communication supports, and community resources, individuals who are DeafBlind can fully participate in education, employment, and everyday life.
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) supports Texans who are DeafBlind through programs and services designed to promote independence, communication, and community participation. These supports include specialized services for children and adults who are DeafBlind, resources for families, and programs that help individuals develop skills and access opportunities within their communities.
In recognition of DeafBlind Awareness Week, HHSC will host a DeafBlind Awareness Week Reception and Art Show at the North Austin Complex on June 24 to celebrate the talents, creativity, and achievements of Texans who are DeafBlind. The event highlights the importance of visibility, awareness, and meaningful opportunities for individuals who are DeafBlind to share their experiences and accomplishments.
In his proclamation, Governor Abbott encourages all Texans to learn more about the DeafBlind community and the many contributions individuals who are DeafBlind make across our great state.
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