31. We Are Still Here: Deaf Native Presence in DC

We Are Still Here: Deaf Native Presence in DC

Tour description:

This immersive walking tour explores the intersection of Deaf history, Indigenous identity and cultural continuity in Washington, DC. Anchored by the current exhibition "We, Native Deaf People, Are Still Here"! at Gallaudet University’s National Deaf Life Museum, the tour highlights the enduring contributions of Native Deaf people to Gallaudet’s legacy and Deaf culture.

Participants will explore historic landmarks on Gallaudet’s campus including Kendall Green, Chapel Hall, and surrounding neighborhoods, while reflecting on themes of language, education, survivance and self-determination.

This ASL-accessible experience bridges museum storytelling with the physical and cultural landscape of DC, inviting participants to consider what it means to be present and persistent in the face of erasure.

Please bring water, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes. QR codes will offer expanded content. Participants are welcome to wear items that honor cultural or community identity.

Tour Guide: Noel King; Curator

Ward: 5

TOUR INFORMATION:

Tour Starting Location:

Gallaudet University's Chapel Hall

800 Florida Avenue, NE, Washington, DC. 20002

Meet at front of the Gallaudet University's Chapel Hall

· Closest Metro or Bus Line: 1. NoMa–Gallaudet U station — Approx. 15-minute walk from campus main entrance

2. Florida Avenue NE and 7th Street NE — Just 2 minutes’ walk, served by routes C53 (to Congress Heights) and C57 (to Capitol Heights)

Additional nearby stops like K Street NE and 8th Street NE (~4-minute walk), served by routes D36, C71, D20

For most participants, NoMa–Gallaudet U station (Red Line) is the best Metrorail option. After exiting the station, walk east on Florida Avenue, then north on 8th Street NE to reach the campus entrance at Florida Avenue and 8th Street NE. For bus riders, Florida Av NE and 7th St NE is ideal—just a short block east of campus.

· Tour Ending Location: 800 Florida Avenue NE, Washington, D.C. 20002 (circling back to the original start location).

· Tour Length: 1 hour 30 minutes

· Tour Distance: 0.5 miles

· Fitness Level: Low Level (slow walking, flat terrain)

· Audio Enhancer: No

· ASL: Yes

· Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

· Stroller Accessible: Yes

Host or Publisher Events DC