Manuscripts

MSS 82
Deaf Interfaith: Theological Advocacy Service, est. 1977
Collection of Deaf Interfaith: Theological Advocacy Service, 1978-1983

Gallaudet University Archives

Descriptive Summary

Repository: Gallaudet University Archives
Call No.: MSS 82
Creator:
Title: Collection of Deaf Interfaith: Theological Advocacy Service
Quantity: 1.0 Linear Feet (2 document boxes)
Abstract:
Note: This document last updated 2005 December 1.

Administrative Information

Acquisition Information: The Deaf Interfaith collection was donated to the Gallaudet University Archives by Laura-Jean Gilbert.
Processed by: Gary W. Brooks. 1998 April 23 October 9.
Processing Note: Conditions on Use and Access: This collection is open to the public with no restrictions. Photocopies may be made for scholarly research.

Related Material in the Archives:

Vertical Files

• Deaf Interfaith: Theological Advocacy Services. Gallaudet University Archives, Call Number: Deaf Subject

Historical Sketch

Deaf Interfaith: Theological Advocacy Service was organized in 1977 and it was incorporated on May 29, 1979. Before the founding of the Deaf Interfaith, there was a group of hearing and deaf persons representing from various religious background concerned that the theological education opportunities were not available to deaf people. Deaf people who received their degrees in religious fields were neglected by the religious community. The group began to discuss these concerns in Washington, D.C. in the fall of 1977.

The result of the meeting was the formation of "Deaf Interfaith: Theological Advocacy Service" The members of Deaf Interfaith created goals to provide for the needs of Deaf religious patrons. After they achieved their goals, they made a presentation to the Board of Directors of the Washington Theological Consortium in the fall of 1978, requesting that the member schools of the consortium accept qualified deaf applicants with the purpose and goals of the Deaf Interfaith.

On May 29, 1979, Deaf Interfaith was incorporated under the laws of the District of Columbia. It was managed by a volunteer, working Board of Directors, and an Advisory Board of persons who were knowledgeable in the fields of education, deafness, ministry, and theological education. At that time, the officers of the Board of Directors were run by President Tom Mather, Vice President Fran Kenyon, Secretary Sister Alverna Hollis, and Treasurer Rev. Kathy Black.

Scope and Content

The Deaf Interfaith: Theological Advocacy Service Collection contains of two boxes of correspondence, letters, proposals, financial reports, minutes, biographies, newsletters, news releases, constitution and by laws, and incorporation.

The collection, which consists of approximately 1,500 papers dated from 1978-1983. The collection covers some biographies of members of Deaf Interfaith; correspondence and letters from different religious communities; minutes of the Board of Directors; Endorsement letters regarding financial needs for Deaf Interfaith. Also, in this collection are proposals for consortium and their goals and guidelines. There is a copy of incorporation and bylaws. There is also a brief history of the organization and its purpose. 

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