'Deaf President Now' Protest Held Students and faculty at Gallaudet University protest the selection of another hearing president. The 'Deaf President Now' protest continues for one week, with multiple rallies, press conferences and marches. After eight days of student protests, I. King Jordan is named the first deaf president of Gallaudet University. Meanwhile, Congress recommends that American Sign Language be used as the primary language for the deaf, with English as a second language. In 1989 Gallaudet is again the focus of international attention when The Deaf Way brings together 5,000 deaf people from accross the globe. The event further boosts deaf pride and cultural awareness.   "DEAF PRESIDENT NOW" PROTEST, 1988 IMAGE CREDIT: GALLAUDET UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES <-- BACK       NEXT -->