Hello, friends.
As we close out Year 2025, I invite us to pause — to reflect — and to celebrate how far we have come together.
This year reminded us that progress is never easy, but it is always possible. Across the Commonwealth, our Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Late-Deafened communities faced barriers that tested our patience and our resolve. Yet in every challenge, our community showed its strength — with courage, creativity, and heart.
When the doors seemed closed, we found new ways in. When voices were ignored, we signed louder. And when access was questioned, we answered with action.
Because of your determination — our staff, partners, and community advocates — MCDHH has not only moved forward; we have made measurable, meaningful progress.
This year, we served over 2,300 individuals, provided more than 4,000 hours of advocacy, and delivered 2,200 hours of recovery support statewide. Behind every number is a name, a story, a life changed. These are not statistics — they are proof that our collective effort is working.
We also made historic strides in training and awareness. Through the Massachusetts Police Training Council, 24,000 law enforcement officers — along with EMTs, hospital staff, and community providers — received Deaf and Hard of Hearing awareness training. That means tens of thousands of first responders are now better prepared to ensure that communication access is a reality in every emergency, every encounter, every moment that matters.
Our CATTS team expanded digital accessibility, producing over 120 ASL-accessible videos that bring vital information directly to our community in our language. In doing so, we are building a Massachusetts where accessibility is not an accommodation — it’s the foundation.
Yes, we have faced staffing challenges and funding pressures. But through it all, our team has stayed focused and fearless. Because when purpose is clear, persistence follows — and our purpose has never been clearer: to ensure that every Deaf and Hard of Hearing person in Massachusetts can live, work, and thrive with full access to opportunity.
As we step into the new year, our vision is strong. We will continue to listen intently, collaborate boldly, and meet the challenge of this moment — together.
Accessibility is not a privilege; it’s a promise. Inclusion is not a wish; it’s work. And progress is not measured by how fast we go — but by how fully we go together.
To our partners, allies, and community members — thank you. Your trust, your feedback, and your shared commitment make this work possible.
Together, we are shaping a Commonwealth where communication flows freely, where every voice matters, and where belonging is not the goal — it’s the starting point.
May the year ahead bring peace, joy, and renewed strength to all. Let’s keep building — boldly, compassionately, and together.
With gratitude and hope.