About Us

Our 
Story

About Us​

Deaf New Americans Maine (DNAMaine) is a Deaf-led community organization dedicated to supporting Deaf immigrants and Deaf New Americans as they build safe, stable, and empowered lives throughout Maine.

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Many Deaf immigrants face unique barriers when arriving in the United States language access, lack of interpreters, limited information in ASL, cultural isolation, and difficulty navigating systems such as healthcare, employment, education, transportation, and legal rights. DNA Maine exists to close these gaps.

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We believe that Deaf immigrants deserve full access, dignity, and equal opportunity, not charity- and that the best support comes from a community that understands Deaf culture, language, and lived experience.

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Our Story

DNA Maine was created in response to real needs seen within the Deaf immigrant community in Maine. too often, Deaf newcomers are expected to navigate complex systems without accessible information or culturally appropriate support.

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As a Deaf-led organization, DNA Maine is built by Deaf people, for Deaf people.     Our work is grounded in lived experience, community trust, and the belief that Deaf immigrants are strong, capable, and valuable members of society.

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We focus not only on immediate support, but also on long-term empowerment - helping Deaf New Americans gain skills, confidence, independence, and community connection.

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What We Do

DNA Maine provides services, education, and advocacy designed specifically for Deaf immigrants and Deaf New Americans, including:

• ASL-based education and workshops

• job reading and employment support

• Driver education support and navigation

• Information on legal rights and civic systems

• Community orientation to U.S. systems

• Advocacy for accessible and equitable services

• Connection to Deaf community resources and networks

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All programs are designed with accessibility, cultural understanding, and language equity at the center.

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Our Values

At DNA Maine, we are guided by these core values:

• Deaf Leadership - Deaf people lead decisions affecting Deaf lives

• Language Access - ASL is a right, not a privilege

• Equity & inclusion - Immigrant status should never limit opportunity

• Community Empowerment - Strong communities create lasting change

• Respect & Dignity - Every Deaf person deserves to be seen and heard

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Our Vision

We envision a Maine where Deaf immigrants and Deaf New Americans feel:

• Welcomed

• Informed

• Empowered

• Connected

• Safe to advocate for themselves

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DNA Maine works toward a future where Deaf New Americans are not left behind      but fully included in all aspects of community life.

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Learn more about the people leading Deaf New Americans Maine and our commitment to transparent, community-based leadership.

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