We are Deaf, Queer, and Here!
With Mervin Primeaux-OBryant and Spencer Grugan
September 6 - 8, 2024
A weekend retreat program for individuals who are 18+ years of age, identify as LGBTQ+, and Deaf/deaf/DeafBlind/Deaf+/hard-of-hearing.
This retreat gathering is presented as an opportunity to bring together individuals who are Deaf and queer. Through group facilitations, community-building, and activities, the two co-facilitators will foster a space of healing, connection, and celebration of the intersectionality of Deaf queer people.
With our shared identities and experiences with which we’ll have the opportunity to express ourselves in many different modes of communication, art, and expression, we will have the space to acknowledge our best authentic selves.
One does not need to know American Sign Language to participate. However, this space is reserved for those who are both Deaf and queer. We also wish to emphasize our greatest intention to create an empowering, supportive, and safe space for Deaf and queer individuals who are also BIPOC.
Leaders
Mervin Primeaux-OBryant (he/they), a native of Lafayette, LA, is a non-binary Deaf artist, performer, and CEO/Founder of MPO Foundation. Mervin attended the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where he obtained his degree in Dance Performance & Choreography. He is an actor, director, producer, choreographer, international performer, and advocate. Currently, he’s busy producing a feature documentary and spends time managing his Mervin Primeaux-OBryant foundation and serving on the board as a Co-founder of Def Lens Media. His creative journey has blessed him with many experiences; including with Quest Visual Theatre as an assistant director and as a consultant for American…
Learn more about Mervin Primeaux-OBryant
Spencer Grugan (they/them), a native of Central Pennsylvania, is a queer transgender Deaf author, content creator, LGBTQ+ advocate, and DEIA specialist. Spencer attended the Rochester Institute of Technology for their undergrad, specializing in Creative Writing, Women & Gender Studies, Psychology, and Communications, and Wright State University to obtain a Master of Arts in Higher Education. Spencer focuses on advocating for civil rights, diversity, inclusion, and equal employment during their daytime job. Spencer authored “Learn to Sign with Your Baby: 50 Essential Signs ASL Signs to help your child communicate their needs, wants, and feelings”. Whenever Spencer is not reading or writing,…
Learn more about Spencer Grugan