The deeper lessons of B.C.B次元官网网址檚 provincial parks have been opened up to the deaf community.
BC Parks Foundation announced that a series of self-guided nature walks, park tours and a sunset photography lesson are now available in American Sign Language, breaking down barriers and opening doors for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community to engage deeply with nature.
The first ASL self-guided walking tour was launched at Goldstream Provincial Park last year, with additional tours recently added to the collection.
The deaf community can now experience ASL-guided tours of Vancouver IslandB次元官网网址檚 Rathtrevor Beach Provinical Park, and Cultus Lake and Golden Ears provincial parks on the Mainland.
A virtual sunset photography tour at Porteau Cove Provincial Park, led by Canadian photographer Jillian Brown, is also available.
Led by Island Deaf and Hard of Hearing Centre (IDHHC), in partnership with BC Parks and BC Parks Foundation, aims to allow more deaf individuals to fully experience and connect with the wonders of the natural world, especially children.
While hearing children may learn about the names of trees, the habits of animals or the importance of conservation simply by overhearing conversations during a family outing, IDHCC says deaf children, especially those in families who do not use sign language, often miss out on this vicarious learning.
ASL interpretation and translations can level the playing field and share information that might have been missed, says Kristi Falconer, communications services manager for IDHHC.
B次元官网网址淣ature is one of the places where the barriers to the deaf community are lessened,B次元官网网址� she said in a BC Parks Foundation news release. B次元官网网址淲e can all see the beautiful trees, breathe the fresh air, and touch the mossy rocks. But when it comes to actually learning about nature, a lot of that happens vicariously.
B次元官网网址淪o having the ability to experience nature B次元官网网址� its peace and relaxation B次元官网网址� while also learning about it is amazing.B次元官网网址�
For Monika, a deaf outdoor enthusiast living on Vancouver Island, a daily connection to nature has improved her life.
She says sheB次元官网网址檚 happy that ASL-guided videos are now available for five B.C. provincial parks. B次元官网网址淏ringing nature closer to the deaf community can foster awareness, understanding, and access B次元官网网址� and help other people feel safe and welcome in our beautiful natural spaces.B次元官网网址�
The ASL-guided videos are accessible through a QR code in the parks and at , as well as at
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