Indigenous Deaf Collaborations

Last updated on March 15, 2024

Indigenous Deaf Collaborations offers services in an American Sign Language (ASL) environment for Indigenous Deaf and Hard of Hearing children, youth, young adults, and their families to connect with each other, support cultural awareness, and learn more about their individual identities. 

Indigenous Deaf Collaborations is committed to a close partnership with MCFD Indigenous programs and Indigenous Deaf communities. Together, we strive to ensure that essential resources and support are available and accessible for Indigenous Deaf & Hard of Hearing children, youth, young adults, and their families receiving services from MCFD Provincial Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services.

Indigenous Deaf Collaborations brings opportunities:

  • Indigenous Deaf and Hard of Hearing Role Models 
  • Awareness of Individual Cultures and Identities
  • Indigenous Sign Language (ISL) Preservation
  • Networking with Indigenous Communities for access, advocacy, and resources
  • Activities, life skills, and leadership opportunities

7th Generation Club

The 7th Generation Club is a gathering in an ASL environment where Indigenous Deaf children and youth thrive in their primary language (ASL), share a sense of belonging as Indigenous and Deaf individuals, and learn about their individual cultures and identities. Seraphine Charleson-Acosta, leader, and Heather Kimola, Indigenous Child Care Counsellor, coordinate the 7th Generation Club.

Indigenous Deaf Advisory Council

The Council convenes three times a year to network and information sharing, assess and address recommendations, and support events, activities, and projects for Indigenous Deaf and Hard of Hearing children and youth receiving services from the Provincial Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services.