Established in 1974, DEAF Media, Inc., is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to advocating for Deaf arts and to developing cultural, educational, and professional opportunities for the Deaf community. Through its arts-oriented mission, DEAF Media promotes the general public’s awareness, acceptance, and appreciation of Deaf people.

Chuck Baird

We accomplish our mission with a commitment to excellence through community events, school projects, television and live theater productions, and special programs done in partnership with Bay Area cultural institutions. We also offer broad consultancy and technical assistance in the field of deafness, particularly with regard to the arts and communication.

Our Perspective
DEAF Media is proud to have a Deaf majority Board of Directors, and to draw its leadership primarily from the Deaf community itself and from recognized scholars in the field of Deaf Studies. With this firmly grounded Deaf perspective, DEAF Media serves the community with a clear understanding of what is most relevant to meet the needs of its audience: Deaf-centered programming and Deaf-centered access to mainstream programs and institutions.

Our Impact
Though the organization is based in Berkeley and focuses its services on Northern California, many DEAF Media projects—including Rainbow’s End and Celebration: Deaf Artists and Performers—have had national scope and created international impact, bringing the organization multiple awards for innovation and excellence. Building bridges, promoting understanding, creating opportunities for access, and increasing the sense of inclusion exist at the core of all DEAF Media projects.