Deaf Access Specialist Lisa Gonzales remembers watching her family and niece Selah Bleu navigate developmental services. Selah Bleu was Deaf and had autism and epilepsy.
“I saw the world through her eyes,” said Lisa. “Seeing what worked and what didn’t has given me insight as a family member about how to strengthen the system.”
As our Deaf Access Specialist, Lisa works with regional centers and staff across the Department to improve communication access for people who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing. She also works to make sure their needs are considered as services and policies are developed.
Since Lisa joined us, the Department has expanded resources, training, and services for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind Californians. This work includes greater access to American Sign Language (ASL), new communication tools, training for service providers and more housing and service options.
Lisa grew up in an all-Deaf family and grew up using sign language in what she describes as a “strong, rich community.” Throughout her career, she has worked with Deaf people in the courts, Deaf agencies, and other organizations.
Today, she brings this professional and personal experience to her work in California’s developmental services system.
Her niece, Selah Bleu, passed away three years ago, but her impact on Lisa’s work remains. “I continue to work in her honor and memory,” she said.
Watch Lisa talk about her work, her connection to the Deaf community and what Deaf Awareness Month means to her.