Deaf Learn Now - Literacy & Basic Skills

June 21st - Let’s Celebrate NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY!
A special occasion to learn more about the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. A step forward each Canadian can take on the path to reconciliation.



Image description:
Pumpkin orange background.
- A large circle with white background. Top of circle has the three Indigenous symbols (a red feather, a black Inukshuk, a purple infinity symbol).
- Below the symbols are the English words in black font, "Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day!"
- Below the English words are the same sentiments in red font, in French and four Indigenous languages.
-Bottom of circle are waves in gold, red, sky blue and light green.
Bottom left: A Métis person playing the fiddle, a First Nations person in cultural attire, an Inuit drumming on the qilaut (native hand drum)

Bottom right: QR code and logo for Deaf Learn Now

Happy Father's Day!
Celebrating all the Dads, step-dads, foster-dads, mother-dads, father figures, and supportive men who make a positive difference in our lives!



Image description:
Cerulean blue background.
Picture: A square with light blue background. In the centre of the square is a white heart with the words in blue font, "Happy Father's Day".

Do You Want to Learn American Sign Language?

Registration is now open for Sign2Connect, a live virtual ASL course designed for beginners.

Build your foundation in ASL while learning:
* Everyday vocabulary
* Conversation basics
* Fingerspelling & numbers
* ASL foundations
* Deaf culture awareness

Starting the week of July 6
Choose the schedule that works for you:
Wednesdays | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
OR
Thursdays | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Live Virtual Classes on Zoom
Includes access to our online learning platform
8-Week Program + Platform Access | $200

Minimum 10 participants required. Limited to 15 learners.

Whether you're learning for work, family, community involvement, or personal growth, Sign2Connect is the perfect place to start your ASL journey.

Register today and start connecting through language.
https://signablevi5ion.com/all-courses/sign2connect/

CALLING ALL DEAF ARTISTS!

Are you a Deaf artist, photographer, writer, craftmaker, designer, or creative vendor in Ontario?

The Ontario Cultural Society of the Deaf (OCSD) invites you to participate in the Artist Marketplace at the Expression Unbound Arts & Culture Festival on September 18, 2026, in Belleville, Ontario.

This is your opportunity to:
• Showcase your creativity and talent
• Connect with the Deaf community and the public
• Network with fellow artists and vendors
• Sell your original artwork and creations
• Gain exposure through a province-wide Deaf cultural event

Artist booths are FREE.
Space is limited and applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-reviewed basis.

Booth includes:
• One table and two chairs
• Indoor accessible setup

Register today through the QR code or visit www.ocsdeaf.org for more information.

Join us in celebrating Deaf arts, culture, language, and creativity at Expression Unbound!

LOOKING FOR A SUMMER JOB?

Deaf Services Canada is hiring a Social Services Program Coordinator (8-week Canada Summer Jobs position)!

Gain experience in employment support, settlement services, events, social media, and community programs while working in an ASL environment supporting the Deaf community.

Toronto or Durham Region
$17.60/hour
Apply by June 19, 2026
[email protected]

Join our team and make a difference!

⚽ FIFA Club World Cup Final Watch Party ⚽

Join the Deaf community for an exciting afternoon of soccer, food, drinks, and great company as we watch the FIFA Club World Cup Final together!

WHEN: Sunday, July 19, 2026
TIME: Arrival: 1:00 PM - Match Kick-Off: 3:00 PM
WHERE: Firkin Pub, 1875 Leslie St, North York, ON M3B 2M5

COST: $40 per person
All payments are non-refundable.

Your admission includes:
Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages (soft drinks, juices, coffee/tea)
Appetizers
A fun Deaf community gathering

RSVP by July 12, 2026, to secure your spot.
Payment by e-transfer:
[email protected]

Come cheer, connect, and enjoy the match with friends and fellow soccer fans!

PLAY. COMPETE. CONNECT.
One game. One community.

June is DeafBlind Awareness Month

This month, we recognize and celebrate the DeafBlind community: their culture, achievements, resilience, and contributions to our society.

DeafBlind individuals experience a combination of vision and hearing loss, but DeafBlindness is not defined by limitations. Through accessible communication methods such as tactile sign language, intervenor services, assistive technology, and community support, DeafBlind people continue to thrive, lead, advocate, create, and inspire.

At the Ontario Cultural Society of the Deaf (OCSD), we are committed to promoting awareness, accessibility, inclusion, and equity for DeafBlind individuals across Ontario and beyond.

Throughout June, take time to:
- Learn about DeafBlind culture and communication
- Advocate for accessible and inclusive spaces
- Celebrate the accomplishments of DeafBlind individuals
- Raise awareness about the importance of accessibility and support services

Together, we can build communities where everyone belongs.



Alt-Text

Green poster for DeafBlind Awareness Month, June 2026. The poster features large white text reading “DEAFBLIND AWARENESS MONTH” above a circular symbol containing two hands forming a communication gesture and a small figure using a white cane. The Ontario Cultural Society of the Deaf (OCSD) logo appears at the bottom. The design uses a green and white colour scheme with subtle decorative line patterns in the background.

TAD's 90th Anniversary Grand Ball – Back to the Future
Join us as we celebrate 90 years of TAD with an unforgettable evening of elegance, memories, community, and connection!

WHEN: April 10, 2027
WHERE Crowne Plaza North York, Toronto
TIME: Picnic Lunch: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM
TIME: Grand Ball: 5:00 PM – 12:30 AM

Early Bird Pricing (until October 9, 2026):
• TAD Members: $155
• Non-Members: $170

Step into the Past, Present & Future as we honour nine decades of Deaf history, culture, advocacy, and community.

Next year, in 2027, TAD will proudly celebrate its 90th anniversary.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email [email protected]

Don't miss this historic milestone event!

Ready to make your next big move? Explore the services, supports and resources we have available at GBP and beyond during our virtual Pathways and Possibilities Service Support Fair! Get your questions answered and get practical guidance for your next steps.

Register now to save your spot for July 22 and waive your OCAS application fee.

https://bit.ly/4eqAT4v

Happy Muharram!
May your New Year be filled with peace, love and joy.



1. Graphic design featuring white mosque silhouettes with crescent moons on domes against a blue patterned background. Text "Happy Muharram Islamic New Year" appears below, celebrating the Islamic New Year occasion.
2. Bottom right: QR code and logo for Deaf Learn Now