Today, Google Doodle celebrating the 220th birthday of Ferdinand Berthier, a revered French Deaf educator, intellectual, and political organizer hailed as an early advocate for Deaf identity and culture.
Born on September 30, 1803, in Saône-et-Loire, France, Berthier’s lasting legacy is rooted in his relentless advocacy for the rights of Deaf individuals and the profound significance of sign language. During a time of evolving societal perceptions, Berthier played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative and empowering the Deaf community.
A pivotal achievement of Berthier was successfully petitioning the French government to establish the Société Centrale des Sourds-muets, an organization dedicated to representing the interests of the Deaf community. This milestone marked a crucial step towards organizing adult education classes and providing crucial support for individuals with deafness.
Statue of Ferdinand Berthier in Louhans, Saône-et-Loire, France (Source: Deaf History)
Berthier’s influence transcended the borders of France as he advocated for the global reach and impact of Société Centrale des Sourds-muets. His dedication was honored when he became the first Deaf recipient of France’s highest accolade, the Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur, in 1849.
In addition to his activism, Berthier was a prolific writer, penning books on deaf history, culture, and the history of sign language. He devoted his life to raising awareness about Deaf rights and significantly impacted education and perception across Europe and America.
Even after his passing on July 12, 1886, in Paris, Berthier’s influence endures, and his work continues to resonate, underscoring the importance of sign language in Deaf culture. Silent banquets, a testament to his legacy, are still held worldwide, reflecting the enduring impact of his dedication and advocacy.
As we celebrate the 220th birthday of Ferdinand Berthier, we pay tribute to a life devoted to advocacy, education, and an unwavering commitment to advancing Deaf rights, leaving an indelible mark on the world.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
