DOCUMENTARY
Unmasking Deaf Education
This 56-minute documentary shines a light on the ongoing fight for true representation in Deaf education — and its impact grows when shared in dialogue with others.
about the film
Unmasking Deaf Education
Unmasking Deaf Education is an educational documentary film, directed by Carey M. Ballard and produced by ASL Education Center, depicts the American Deaf community's battle for true representation in education.
One central theme is the longstanding resistance of the educational system to allow Deaf children to use American Sign Language as a language of instruction and interaction. Despite decades of evidence showing the positive impacts of ASL and bilingualism in education, to this day, hearing professionals still believe they know what is best for Deaf children and continue to encourage monolingual spoken English only as the medium of instruction and interaction.
This documentary uncovers the multi-layered and multifaceted struggle our community has been cycling through for over 150 years, and highlights the importance of American Sign Language to our Deaf identity and our fundamental right to an equitable education. The film discusses the historical context of repeated persecution of sign language and elevating oralism (training in only speaking), revealing the societal misconceptions and biases that perpetuate this divide. It portrays the challenges faced by Deaf students and their families who have been pressured into conforming to mainstream expectations, often at the cost of their well-being and learning.
This film is a deeply personal account of Deaf people who feel silenced by and in a system that does not recognize their needs. Their stories are reflected by Deaf community members and hearing parents who grapple with the decision between fitting their children into a mold or embracing their Deaf identity. But it's not all about the past and present struggles; it's also about successes. The documentary features pioneers who have passionately and relentlessly advocated for ASL-English Bilingual education. Through their efforts, we see an emerging trend of schools and programs honoring ASL, giving hope for a future where Deaf students can thrive in all environments, including educational contexts. At its core, the film is a tribute to the resilience of the Deaf community.
Duration
55 Minutes
Released
2025
The film
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Community Events
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Classrooms
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Workplaces
Foster understanding and inclusion in professional environments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of documentaries do you produce?
We produce ASL-centric documentary films that highlight Deaf history, culture, and important educational topics, bringing narratives to life through a highly visual medium.
Are your documentaries accessible to hearing audiences?
Absolutely. While our documentaries prioritize the Deaf community, they feature English voiceovers and closed captioning to ensure full accessibility for everyone.
Where can I watch the documentaries you've produced?
Information about our latest film releases, screenings, and streaming availability can be found directly on our Projects or Documentary pages.