Why Our Work Is Important?

Our goal is simple – push for meaningful change and improved quality of life for Deaf Asian Americans in the Greater New York; ensure that the Deaf Asian community is not left behind in the broader discourse on racial justice; advocate for greater representation of Deaf Asians in political and social spheres.

MADA addresses systemic issues impacting the Deaf Asian American community such as language accessibility and fighting racism including the Asian Hate movements. We had hosted successful Asian KODA & Deaf Youth Summer Camp and Deaf Asian Seniors Conference, MADA directly responds to community-identified problems and solutions, fostering a generational connection with culture and community and addressing aging challenges.

MADA’s Deaf Asian Community has made significant contributions to improving the lives of the Deaf Asian NYC residents by increasing self-awareness about themselves with confidence, pride, self-esteem, and strong community support, building good community relationships with other local NYC organizations, regional, and national communities, and creating more safe space for Asian Deaf community.

MADA has shifted its focus to effectuate the policy changes and public awareness to address the root causes of oppression and improve safety and equity. We are seeking to build a series of civic education conversations which we hope to build upon voter power and nonpartisan political education. The grant will be used to add capacity and strategic direction to our civic engagement work and public outreach to build out a civic education and advocacy leadership development program.

In conclusion, MADA is deeply rooted in the principles of empowerment and community-led initiatives to address systemic issues impacting the Deaf Asian community. By securing this grant, MADA seeks to expand its capacity and strategic direction, furthering our impact on the lives of Deaf Asian Americans and contributing to the broader goals of social justice and equity.