In celebration of "Deaf Awareness Month", I will again be hosting the 4th Annual DEAFestival Los Angeles on Sunday, September 16, 2007 at Woodley Park in partnership with the Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department, Department on Disability, Department of Recreation and Parks, California Association of the Deaf, Cal State University at Northridge, Deaf Studies Department and World Recreation Association of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (WRAD), Inc. The purpose of the festival is to build a wider array of services and community support for the 400,000 people who are deaf and hard-of-hearing in the City of Los Angeles.

The event will recognize and showcase the achievements, talents, and the unique needs of the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing people. It allows all participants to broaden their awareness, learn and understand more about the deaf and hard-of-hearing culture. This is achieved through education and fostering of understanding to enhance the relationships and communication among deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing people. The festival also provides families with opportunities to learn about deaf programs, experience a broader perspective of their community and meet other deaf individuals.

Most importantly, this event helps to develop a sense of place, community, identity, and value. Activities will include storytelling, art workshops, live entertainment and the opportunity to meet deaf artists. On behalf of the organizing partners, I would like to invite you to join me in helping to make the annual DEAFestival Los Angeles in the San Fernando Valley a truly memorable and successful event.

If you are interested in providing an information booth with the services you render to the deaf community, please complete the enclosed application and fax it to (213) 847-0549 or mail it back to my office. If you have any questions please contact Bertha Velazquez at (213) 473-7006.

Last year's celebration was a great success with approximately five thousand people attending from the San Fernando Valley and the greater Los Angeles region.

I hope you will join us on Sunday, September 16, 2007 at DEAFestival Los Angeles. The parents and children will welcome your support and participation.

Come network and have fun!
TONY CÁRDENAS
Councilmember, 6th District
City of Los Angeles

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