EMBARGOED - Until 13 April, 2024
AUSLAN DAY - 13th April 2024
Children's entertainer Emma Memma in collaboration with nation's oldest Deaf society Expression Australia is celebrating Auslan Day today.
Emma Memma and character Elvin Melvin who is Deaf use Australian sign language in their performances. Auslan is different to English, it has its own syntax and grammar and was officially recognised as its own language on this day 35 years ago.
Expression Australia estimates around 20,000 people use Auslan as their primary language. CEO Rebecca Adam, the first Deaf person to lead the organisation says Emma Memma is a trail blazer in making all her shows inclusive. "Emma and Elvin are wonderful allies of Expression and give unprecedented representation to Deaf people in such a positive way, it would be wonderful for the wider community to learn basic signs and embrace this beautiful language." Expression has partnered with Emergency Management Victoria for many years to ensure the community has access to emergency information in Auslan. Ms Adams also believes that knowing emergency signs such as fire and evacuation could save someone's life. More information can be found at Expression.com.au
Video links to Emma Memma and Rebecca Adams can be found here :
Rebecca Adam - CEO Expression Australia
Emma Memma is here:
Key Facts:
AUSLAN DAY - 13 April.
Australian Sign Language - recognised as official language in 1989
Entertainer Emma Memma and Deaf performer Elvin Melvin in colloboration with Expression Australia celebrate AUSLAN Day .
Video links for media use available
About us:
About Expression Australia
Expression Australia’s purpose is to create opportunities for people who are Deaf and hard of hearing by delivering targeted services and affecting social change. Expression Australia enables Deaf communities to flourish and is inclusive of all members of those communities, irrespective of age or background.
Since 1884, as an iconic and progressive community organisation, our service delivery and supports continue to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of our Deaf and hard of hearing people. We celebrate the rich heritage and cultural diversity of the Deaf community.
Our team is driven by a passion to work in a bi-lingual, bi-cultural organisation that respects both Auslan and English and work collaboratively together, including the development of co-designing services and market leading programs, navigation of the NDIS and ensuring improved access,inclusion, and equal opportunity.
Contact details:
Kellie Curtain M: 0412339690
Audio inteviews with Emma Memma and Rebecca Adam are available on request
