Deaf History Month 2023: April 11th - Bridgetta Bourne-Firl
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Bridgetta Bourne-Firl played an instrumental role in the "Deaf President Now" (DPN) movement at Gallaudet University in 1988. As one of the leaders of the protest, she worked tirelessly to advocate for a deaf president to be appointed to the university, which had previously only been led by hearing presidents. The protest was a response to the Board of Trustees' decision to appoint a hearing president over two highly qualified deaf candidates, which sparked outrage among the student body and the broader deaf community.
Bourne-Firl was a key member of the student leadership group during the DPN movement and was among the individuals who negotiated directly with the university administration and the Board of Trustees. Her dedication and leadership were critical in achieving the movement's ultimate goal: the appointment of the first deaf president of Gallaudet University, Dr. I. King Jordan.
Bourne-Firl continued to be a strong advocate for deaf rights and representation beyond the DPN movement. She went on to earn a master's degree from the University of Maryland and pursued a successful career as a disability rights advocate, serving in leadership positions at various organizations, including the National Association of the Deaf and the National Council on Disability.
Bourne-Firl's contributions to the DPN movement and the broader deaf community have had a lasting impact on the fight for deaf rights and representation in higher education and beyond. Her story serves as an inspiration to many in the deaf community and beyond, demonstrating the power of collective action and the importance of fighting for equity and justice.
