In honor of the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, YES alumni in Israel (Arab Communities) hosted an online workshop with Nidaa Mahami, a Deaf mother of a YES alumnus. This event, hosted in late July, was part of the program-wide effort to celebrate the Americans With Disabilities Act, which culminated in the Crip Camp Workshop in August. YES alumni around the world have also organized workshops to discuss the unique challenges of and opportunities for accessibility in their own countries.

Ms. Mahami shared the challenges she faces in society, such as being unable to go to the university because of the cost of a sign language assistant. She told participants about her daily routine and about how she manages in challenging situations, like asking for help in emergency situations. She also shared stories of her successes in raising her kids and in her work. 

Ms. Mahami taught the participants some basic sign language, including expressions for greeting people and expressing love. She shared resources on technology, organizations and volunteer groups that have helped her overcome obstacles in her life, as well as information on how YES alumni can get involved and work towards accessibility for all in their own communities. 

After the event, the students shared how touched they were by Ms. Mahami’s account of her personal experiences. They also expressed their interest in planning a volunteer activity that would support the Deaf community. 

For more information about alumni events celebrating the ADA, visit the ADA 30th Anniversary category on the YES website.