I’m thrilled to announce the year kick off of one of Owens Community College’s “BIGgest” initiatives, the BIG Read, which is aimed at promoting awareness and appreciation for diverse perspectives through literature and engaging campus and local activities. This project, which spans the entire academic year, seeks to engage students, faculty, and the surrounding community in discussions about the selected book and its themes.
It is set to be a transformative experience, deepening our understanding of critical issues such as race, gender, disabilities, religion, and more. This year, we will explore Deaf culture, American Sign Language, and audism through renowned author, Sara Novic, who is celebrated for her insightful exploration of Deaf culture and identity in her contemporary novel True Biz.
Novic’s first novel, Girl at War, gained critical acclaim for its portrayal of a young girl’s experiences during the Yugoslav Wars and the challenges she faces as a Deaf individual. Novic, who herself is Deaf, brings a unique perspective to her writing, shedding light on the complexities of navigating a world that often marginalizes those with hearing differences.
Similarly, last year’s BIG Read author, a distinguished writer known for her compelling exploration of Native American identity and environmental justice in contemporary literature, Toni Jensen’s writing intertwines personal narrative with social commentary, offering insights into the complexities of Indigenous experiences in America. The BIG Read authors bring, not only their literary expertise, but also their personal experiences to enrich the discussions.
Equally compelling, are the contributions of our faculty members in events for the year. Dr. Kristen Price, Professor of Psychology, will lead a discussion on the psychological impact of societal biases and discrimination with Kim Musser-Quist, an Instructor of American Sign Language, who will provide valuable insights into Deaf culture and the challenges faced by the Deaf community in Confronting Biases on Thursday, August 29 at 11 a.m. in College Hall 100.
Experience the profound themes of Deaf culture in the critically acclaimed film The Sound of Metal at the October 3 showing and live discussion, led by Emmah Artino, Instructor of American Sign Language. This powerful film explores the journey of a drummer who loses his hearing and navigates the Deaf community, offering insights into identity, perseverance, and communication.
In addition to our many other events, is the opportunity for participants to learn basic American Sign Language (ASL) led by our ASL instructors. These sessions aim not only to teach a new language but also to foster empathy and communication skills essential for engaging with the Deaf community.
I had the opportunity to interview Professor Jen Hazel about her most anticipated aspect of the BIG Read project. She responded, “When the author comes is my most favorite part of the BIG Read project. I do love the books clubs, too, as we have a lot of good discussions during them!”
Intrigued by her personal connections to these discussions, I inquired further. Hazel explained, “I think, on a humanistic level, we can all learn so much from learning about each other; I see little connections and learn to appreciate others and others’ perspectives better.”
One of the more anticipated events is “The Faces Of” art exhibit, set to explore Deaf culture, its history, and the ongoing struggle for rights. The exhibit, which will open in April, will depict the experiences of Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, highlighting their challenges in a primarily hearing world. It will also address themes of hearing privilege and ableism.
As noted by the Communication Service for the Deaf, “Deaf history is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Despite centuries of discrimination and marginalization, Deaf people have persevered and created a culture that is vibrant, unique, and enduring. By celebrating Deaf history and culture, we can honor the contributions of Deaf people and promote a more inclusive and compassionate world for all.”
The BIG Read Project represents more than just a series of events; it stands as a transformative movement towards understanding and inclusivity.
At Owens Community College, we are passionately committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every voice is not only heard but deeply valued. Our aim is to inspire a more compassionate, enlightened community—one that celebrates the richness of human experience and embraces the transformative power of diverse narratives to shape a brighter and more inclusive future together.
Join us in this exciting journey of discovery, connection, and collective growth this year. For more information on the BIG Read and this year’s events, please visit their website at https://www.owens.edu/humanities/read/
