Or Shalom member Susan Teplinsky grew up with Deaf parents, making ASL (American Sign Language) her first language before she ever spoke a word. Her experience is an indispensable embodiment of our congregation's emphasis on community and inclusion, continually driving us to seek out new ways to bridge cultures, communicate with compassion, and embrace different perspectives.

 

Developed in partnership with the DEI Implementation Group and Women of Or Shalom, this program will help us deepen our understanding through a watch party of CODA, the award-winning film about a hearing child of Deaf parents. Then, in the final hour, Susan will share her personal story - the joys and challenges of her upbringing, the misconceptions about sign language (did you know ASL isn’t universal?), and how her experiences have shaped who she is today.

 

Join us for an afternoon of film, conversation, and connection - you won’t want to miss it!