Introduction
The Southern University Deaf School, established in 1938 and operational until 1978, holds a significant place in the history of Deaf education in Louisiana. As we delve into the memories and experiences shared by former students, we uncover not only the educational challenges they faced but also the cultural history that shaped their lives.
The Founding and Closing of the Deaf School
A Brief History
Southern University’s Deaf School was founded with the intention of providing an educational space for Deaf children, predominantly from Black communities. This institution operated independently until it was incorporated into the Louisiana School for the Deaf in 1978, marking the end of an era. The experiences shared by former students reveal a lot about the educational approaches of that time.
My Experience as a Student
I vividly recall my excitement about attending the Deaf school. The recollections from my family echoed, “What?” and I expressed my joy with a hopeful “Oh papa, papa! I want to go to school.” However, this excitement was soon met with challenges when the superintendent’s strict demeanor led to harsh disciplinary measures.
Life at the Southern University Deaf School
Classroom Environment
- Language Restrictions: One of the groundbreaking aspects of the Deaf school was the language dynamics within the classroom. Despite being a community of Deaf individuals, signing was not allowed, and we were required to fingerspell constantly.
- Cultural Differences in Sign Language: I remember the variations in how we engaged in signing compared to our white counterparts, emphasizing a unique cultural identity. My peers and I took pride in expressing our thoughts and feelings through our distinct signs.
- Thrust into Discipline: The disciplinary methods were rigorous. For instance, we were made to line up when transitioning to and from the cafeteria, with constant reminders of the rules that dictated our behavior. The food served, like the oats, often differed from home-cooked meals, which became a source of shared humor among us.
The Influence of Culture and Religion
Catholic Influence
Our education not only focused on academics but also embraced cultural learning through the Catholic Church. The visits from nuns and priests were significant moments, as they were some of the only white individuals we encountered who could communicate through sign language.
- Sign Language Learning: It was through observing these religious figures that many of us picked up signs from Catholic liturgy during Sunday services, such as prayers like Hail Mary. This experience marked a turning point in our understanding and use of sign language.
The Work Ethic of Yesterday vs. Today
Reflections on Labor
Working hard was integral to our upbringing at the Deaf School, where free labor was the norm. Daily tasks were mandatory, fostering a strong work ethic during our formative years.
- Comparison with the Current Generation: Today, I often find myself reflecting on how different the younger generations approach work. It’s a stark contrast to the diligent routine we adhered to.
The Importance of Preserving History
Cherishing Memories
The experiences at Southern University Deaf School form a rich tapestry of history that deserves remembrance and respect. The personal stories carry the weight of cultural identity, struggles, and triumphs that young Deaf individuals should learn about.
Passing Down Legacy
- Education on History: It's vital for my children to understand the journey that my peers and I walked through within these walls. The tales and teachings from our time at the Deaf School are knowledge worth sharing.
- Connecting Generations: Keeping the history of SSD alive will not only honor those who came before us but also lay down a path for future generations to appreciate their roots.
Conclusion
The Southern University Deaf School remains a significant chapter in the larger narrative of Deaf education and the Black community in Louisiana. As we reflect upon the shared experiences, struggles, and cultural learnings, we recognize the importance of honoring this history. The stories of SSD remind us of the resilience of the Deaf community and the cultural richness that defines it. Through remembering and cherishing these memories, we ensure that the legacy of the past continues to influence and inspire the future generations of Deaf individuals.
Let us celebrate the history of SSD, for it is a story worth telling and a legacy worth preserving.
This is where the old Deaf school used to be. The school was located on the campus of Southern University. It was founded in 1938 and closed in 1978,
when it was incorporated into the new campus of Louisiana School for the Deaf. My mama, papa, and brother said, “What?”
“Oh papa, papa! I want to go to school.” I leapt with joy. And then the superintendent spanked me.
it was comfortable to be there, to be among other Deaf students. In the hearing world, I was very aware
of the separations between white and Black people. Did we sign in class? No, it was forbidden.
We had to fingerspell everything in the classroom. Remember how we signed differently than white people? Instead of signing “school” like white people,
this is how we signed “school.” Ah, yes. I remember that! Here’s another sign. "Copy."
Instead of this, this is how we signed it. And here’s the sign for “None of your business.” That’s the sign for “told.”
The sign we know as “church” was our sign for “pray.” The old superintendent would whip us. He was mean, that superintendent.
We would get up early, and he made us get up all at once. And we lined up to go to the cafeteria.
Why did we have to line up? We couldn’t ask questions or we’d get in trouble. Then we’d get ready to eat.
It was different from how my mama and papa served it. You see, all of the teachers were Black. On Sundays, a nun and a priest would come to campus.
They were the only white people we ever saw on campus, and they could sign. We would watch them. So that’s how we learned how to sign, through Catholic liturgy.
Through prayers like Hail Mary and Thou Art. Up until that point, we had only fingerspelled. They made us work here. It was free labor.
They’d make us clean every day when I was younger. And outside of here, it feels different. My children just don’t have the same work ethic.
I used to work harder. The younger generation is so different. There is a history here at SSD.
It’s history that I want my children to know about. I want them to remember what it was like here. It’s a history worth cherishing, the history of SSD.
Heads up!
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