ASL Students Explore the Power of Signing at Mata Expo
Students from the American Sign Language (ASL) program at Fullerton College recently ventured to Pomona, CA for the Mata Expo. One of the biggest events for the Deaf and hard of hearing communities in the region, the expo provided students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural and communicative aspects of these communities–an experience acquired beyond the classroom.
The event featured engaging live performances, an ASL workshop and more. Among the vendors were Deaf communication companies and the TTY (Teletype) Museum, which provided a window into the long history and evolution of telecommunications technology for deaf people. Students also got to experience Deaf theater and storytelling, which gave them a deeper appreciation for the expressive power of ASL.
ASL faculty, Kristine Crable and Eddie Gutierrez, as well as classified staff member, Amy Shrack, also participated in the event as representatives of the Fullerton College’s ASL program and its upcoming spring 2025 ASL course offerings.
“Attending the Mata Expo with our wonderful ASL professors was a great experience, not only to support our ASL 101 students but also to spread the word to the Deaf, hard of hearing, and ASL communities that Fullerton College now offers ASL classes.” said Shrack. “Our ASL faculty are deeply connected to the community, and it was an honor to be introduced to colleagues in ASL programs at other colleges and to meet instructors, interpreters, counselors, students and parents from all over Southern California. The Humanities Division is excited to continue to grow this program and strengthen these connections.”
This experience was curated by Crable, as part of the requirement in ASL 101 courses for students to attend a Deaf culture event and author a paper about it. A theoretical and practical assignment, students left the trip reflective and with a fostered interest to become more informed in the Deaf and hard of hearing communities.
“The Mata Expo provides ASL students with an opportunity to immerse themselves in Deaf culture, offering firsthand experiences that bridge the gap between classroom learning and the real Deaf world.” said Crable. “By engaging with deaf professionals, participating in live performances and exploring deaf-owned businesses, students gain a deeper understanding of the language and the daily challenges faced by the Deaf community.”
Hosted by Mata Cares, an organization committed to serving the Deaf and hard of hearing communities, the Mata Expo is an annual event where people reunite, celebrate and support one another. Fullerton College’s attendance marked an opportunity to shed light on the campus’ expanding ASL efforts, while also encouraging the Deaf community to consider us a resource to support a thriving ASL culture in Orange County.
