Sign language flash mob marks 50th anniversary of deaf society

Dozens of people took part in a sign language flash mob Friday to celebrate the 50th anniversary of a local organization that helps deaf Edmontonians and their families.

The Connect Society is an organization that provides programs and services to help deaf children, teens and adults.

“We’re the only ones providing services to meet the needs of the deaf community. There aren’t any other organizations out there,” said Linda Cundy with the Connect Society.

“We try to provide needs from birth to death for the deaf community.”

The 50th anniversary celebration took place at Churchill Square Friday afternoon.

After Mayor Stephen Mandel awarded the organization with a certificate of recognition, song and dance broke out.

Unlike most flash mobs, participants for this one signed while they danced.

“The public… they don’t have as much awareness of sign language so we thought it was a great way to spread awareness of sign language and the use of ASL because deaf children need to acquire sign language to acquire literacy and therefore be independent, productive citizens,” Cundy said.

Anniversary events are planned through June.

Click here to learn more about Connect Society.