Greens MLC Colleen Hartland is proud to announce that her request has been successful for an Auslan (Australian Sign Language) Interpreter in Parliament tomorrow for a debate on the TAFE cuts and loss of the Auslan Diploma at Kangan Institute.
"Tomorrow, for one historic debate, the Deaf community will be heard in Parliament. I will speak with your voice, as well as my own, and the Minister will be called on to respond with your voice as well," said Ms Hartland
"Parliament will see for itself the beauty of Auslan, its expressive capability and how it creates a communication bridge for the Deaf community to participate in education, health, family and community - not to mention a democratic process like Parliament."
"Most of Victoria's interpreters start at Kangan Institute, where they become bilingual and bicultural, which is a prerequisite to commencing an Interpreter course."
"The Deaf community and their supporters have been attending parliament in large numbers since the Diploma of Auslan was cut. Their silent presence in the public gallery has been a very moving illustration of their wish to participate in a discussion that excludes them."
"I expect the gallery will be packed with the Deaf community, supporters and family tomorrow at 2pm. It will be a beautiful and historic debate, which is likely to bring out the best in our MPs, whatever their political affiliation. It will be an affirmation of the value of Auslan education to Victoria."
For comment: Colleen Hartland - 9689 6373