2027 Early Hearing Detection & Intervention Conference
March 22-24, 2027 • Bellevue, WA
3/17/2026 | 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Navigating Dual Currents: Straddling Identities and Connecting to Community | City Terrace 10
Navigating Dual Currents: Straddling Identities and Connecting to Community
As we navigate the currents of identity development, most children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing often find themselves riding the waves between two distinct worlds: the Deaf community and the hearing environment. This presentation will discuss the complexities of growing up straddling these identities and the unique challenges that arise from this dual experience.
Anchored in purpose, our session will explore some social, emotional, and cultural factors that shape the identities of Deaf children, and offer stories from our lived experiences. Through personal narratives and practical strategies, we will highlight the importance of fostering supportive environments that honor and celebrate these identities.
We commit to empower families, educators, and professionals to better advocate for and support the complex journeys of children navigating the intersections of Deafness and hearing culture, while ensuring that every child feels anchored in their sense of self.
- Understand the significance of DHH identity in shaping a child’s sense of self
- Recognize 2-3 factors that can positively or negatively influence your child’s self-identification as a DHH individual
- Explore conflict resolution strategies that can be discussed with your child(ren), empowering them to navigate challenges
Presentation:
View Presentation File
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
Transcripts:
CART transcripts are NOT YET available, but will be posted shortly after the conference
Presenters/Authors
Laura Gramer
(Primary Presenter,Co-Presenter), Washington Hands & Voices, lobara@gmail.com;
Born and raised just outside of Chicago, Laura moved to Seattle with her husband 17 years ago. Together, they are a proud deaf family raising two deaf sons and a lively three-year-old chocolate labrador.
Coming from her deaf upbringing, Laura brings unique perspective that have shaped her lifelong commitment to advocacy and community. Inspired early on by her parents, who instilled the value of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) community, she has grown into a strong advocate—for herself, her children, and now the broader community.
Laura currently serves as the Board President of Washington State Hands & Voices and has contributed her expertise through numerous advisory roles and board service, including the Alaska Airlines External Advisory Board, the Seattle Commission for People with Disabilities, and several other boards in both Illinois and Washington. She has collaborated with DHH peers, parents, and organizations on legislative efforts to advance access and equity. Her leadership and dedication have been recognized with the Outstanding Community Service Award from HLAA-WA and, most recently, the Marilyn J. Smith Inspiration Award from ADWAS (Abused Deaf Women’s Advocacy Services).
At the heart of Laura’s work is a deep commitment to ensuring every DHH child and family feels supported, empowered, and included.
ASHA DISCLOSURE:
Financial -
No relevant financial relationship exists.
Nonfinancial -
No relevant nonfinancial relationship exists.
AAA DISCLOSURE:
Financial -
No relevant financial relationship exists.
Nonfinancial -
No relevant nonfinancial relationship exists.
Katie Huray
(Co-Presenter), MD/DC Hands & Voices, katie.huray@gallaudet.edu ;
Katie Huray is a Deaf parent of two Deaf children. She currently volunteers as Board President of the Maryland/DC Hands & Voices Chapter, as well as the Co-Coordinator for DC Guide By Your Side. She grew up in Massachusetts and attended an oral school for the deaf. She was mainstreamed for middle school and high school, and earned her B.A. in Human Development from Connecticut College. After being in the legal field, Katie is pursuing a Master’s Degree in Early Intervention Studies at Gallaudet University. Her hobbies include playing ice hockey and mahjong.
ASHA DISCLOSURE:
Financial -
No relevant financial relationship exists.
Nonfinancial -
No relevant nonfinancial relationship exists.
AAA DISCLOSURE:
Financial -
No relevant financial relationship exists.
Nonfinancial -
No relevant nonfinancial relationship exists.