Dasmine Maynard

Program:

• PGS: Disability Rights and Oppression: Experiences within Global Deaf Communities

Ask me about...

• Studying sign language in another country

• Experience as a minority abroad

• Traveling internationally for the first time

My Experience Abroad:

As a political science major with a minor in international relations, my experience abroad gave me a fresh perspective on the lives of Deaf Italians by shedding light on their socioeconomic hurdles and triumphs. Given my keen interest in Deaf studies and American Sign Language, my overseas experience expanded my comprehension of global Deaf communities and the political challenges they face. From their efforts to gain language recognition to their advocacy for enhanced disability rights, I quickly learned that political engagement runs deep within global Deaf communities. This aspect was particularly fascinating and greatly enriched my learning experience as it is closely related to my interest in political advocacy and public policy. Furthermore, I was also intrigued by the ways in which a country’s language recognition status directly correlates with the political atmosphere of that nation. For instance, Italy’s lethargic bureaucratic system greatly contributed to its prolonged fight for the official language recognition of Italian Sign Language - which was only recently approved on May 19, 2021. By partaking in this Penn Global Seminar, I was able to peer into the political atmosphere of Italy through the lens of Deaf Italians. Prior to this abroad experience, I may have labeled these two topics as divergent entities - however, this course helped me to broaden my perspective and intellectual capacity. As I continue in my academic endeavors, I am now more cognizant of the social effects of political systems and their far-reaching impacts on even the smallest communities.

Other Highlights:

• Visiting the Roman Colosseum

• Visiting two of Italy’s educational institutions for the Deaf: Istituto Statale dei Sordi in Rome (ISSR) and ISISS Magarotto

• Building friendships within the cohort