September marks American Sign Language and Deaf Awareness Month—a time to celebrate culture, amplify voices, and strengthen understanding of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. From schools to workplaces, awareness efforts are shining a spotlight on inclusivity, accessibility, and the powerful language that connects it all: ASL.

ASL interpreter Kirsten Rosario said, "As we are moving into celebrating deaf awareness and sign language awareness, I just want everyone to remember, there's so much happening around the world, we understand that language access is not always the priority, but to know we do have a group of deaf individuals here today...and I'm so honored to gather the old and then gather the new, if I look to the right- see all the people who started sign language on Guam to include Chamorro sign language, as well."

She started off the proclamation ceremony for American Sign Language and Deaf Awareness Month by stating facts, adding, "We are a small team of interpreters, there are a limited amount of us. There are only six of us at GDOE, and five outside that do freelance interpreting."

She happily used the opportunity to recognize those who made it possible on island, also making it a point to acknowledge her wonderful students. 

The room filled with so many who have served as a big resource and offered so much help. She adds how Myra Mendiola has been such an inspiration and made it possible to have an ASL and English curriculum. "I would not have a deaf teacher. I think that is really important for these students learn from deaf people themselves- it's their language, it's their culture, we immerse ourselves in it. We learn the language because we love ASL. And this is why we are all here today," she said.

Acting Governor Joshua Tenorio shared how it was a good opportunity to bring public awareness about the services that must be provided and recognize that guam has talented people here that we want to enable to do their part so they can continue to make the island a special place. 

"I say must, right? Because everybody on our island whatever language you use or speak, is entitled to government services," he shared, adding that we have to continue to spread the word. "Every single person that presents themselves to the government, is entitled to have language access including sign language. It is a right."

He thanked all for helping pave the way- with their experience and inspiration they can continue to help people live their lives and pursue all the things they want to pursue.

They all said, enthusiastically, "Biba sign language!"