2022 Conference on Independent Living
Congrats to Deb Guthmann-Ternus and Gabriel Lomas on their presentation today at the National Council on Independent Living's Annual Conference.
Criminal Justice within the Deaf & Disabled Community: Current Research and Future Needs
Location: Independence FGHI
Track: Advocacy & Policy Work
Audience: Advocates & Project Directors
Knowledge Level: Appropriate for all knowledge levels
This presentation will focus on Deaf and other disabled individuals who are involved with the criminal justice system who may also have additional language and learning challenges. There is a considerable disparity regarding research and training related to what is happening in the criminal justice system for this population. This presentation will explore how the book Deaf People in the Criminal Justice System and the documentary film “Being Michelle” create an opportunity to provide education and help raise awareness about the numerous barriers and injustices that frequently happen with this population. The presentation will showcase parts of “Being Michelle” and presenters will facilitate discussion relevant to the film. Presenters thank Damara Goff Paris for assistance in development of this presentation.
Debra Guthmann, Ed.D., has worked within the Deaf community for over 40 years in educational, medical and social service settings. Dr. Guthmann founded the Minnesota Substance Use Dependency Program for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Individuals and was the Director of Pupil Personnel Services at the California School for the Deaf, Fremont. Dr. Guthmann has published books, book chapters, and articles focusing on substance abuse and ethics within the deaf community. Dr. Guthmann was the lead consultant for a grant that translated and validated 10 screeners in SUD, mental health, and career interest into ASL.
Gabriel Lomas, Ph.D. is a Professor and Director of Counseling Programs at Gallaudet University. He has significant experience in psychological testing and counseling. He has research and practice specializations in the areas of crisis and trauma, child therapy, and forensic evaluation, especially in the child welfare arena. In particular, he worked closely with victims and offenders on hundreds of child welfare cases in states across the nation. Lomas has received more than $6M in grant awards, including funding to grow the integrated primary care workforce, and funding to establish a Center for School Safety in Connecticut.
