PORTLAND, Maine — In the wake of the loss of four Deaf community members, Terry Morrell, the Director for the Division for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing & Late Deafened (DDHHLD), emphasizes the unique strength and interconnectedness of the Deaf community, likening it to a tight-knit family with deep personal connections.
Morrell shared the community's struggle in the aftermath of the tragic Lewiston shooting, noting that the loss has affected individuals in various ways.
"I know all of the individuals who were deaf that were there; we are a tight-knit community, so I knew who all of them were," Morrell said.
He acknowledged the challenges some are facing while highlighting the resilience and progress that others are making.
Estimating a population of 500 to 800 culturally deaf individuals in the state, Morrell discussed the efforts being made to bring the community together.
Events, such as the recent Deaf Space event organized by Sarah Carter, aim to provide a space for communal support.
Carter, a member of the Deaf community, emphasized the personal connections shared among its members, describing the loss as deeply impactful and underscoring the need for mutual support.
Carter, who knew three of the four victims personally, stressed the importance of keeping their memory alive. She reflected on the difficulty of the situation, stating, "The four people who were lost, their names—we don't want their names to ever fade."
Even as the pain remains fresh, the community is united in ensuring that the names and memories of their lost members remain front and center.
Looking to the future, Morrell expressed optimism about the community's resilience. He believes that the tragedy has brought the Deaf community in Maine even closer together. Despite the already strong connections, the shared experience has deepened the bonds among its members.
DDHHLD is actively working at both federal and state levels to advocate for policy changes and improved access to resources for the Deaf community.
To find deaf counseling resources or learn how to volunteer and support Maine's Deaf community, individuals can visit here.