Zoo Knoxville to host Deaf Awareness Day with sign language interpretation
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Zoo Knoxville plans to host a Deaf Awareness Day on Monday, April 28, with American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters.
The day is meant to highlight the importance of accessibility and inclusivity for people who are deaf or hard of hearing and to 'celebrate Deaf culture.'
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Volunteer ASL students will interpret select chats at the following times:
Joe the Sloth: 10 a.m.
Herpetology: 10:30 a.m.
Otters: 11 a.m.
Birds: 11:30 a.m.
Apes: 1 p.m.
'I think it's great because unfortunately, a lot of times, people in general are unaware about the deaf and hard of hearing culture and the language of American Sign Language,' said Craig Lemak, a member of Knoxville's deaf community. 'So, it's really nice to give the community an opportunity to experience what ASL is and what the deaf and hard of hearing community is all about — and also to learn the significance of equal access.'
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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