Sign language tours open up secret world of BC Parks

The deeper lessons of B.C.’s provincial parks have been opened up to the deaf community.

BC Parks Foundation announced that a series of self-guided nature walks, park tours and a sunset photography lesson are now available in American Sign Language, breaking down barriers and opening doors for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community to engage deeply with nature.

The first ASL self-guided walking tour was launched at Goldstream Provincial Park last year, with additional tours recently added to the collection.

The deaf community can now experience ASL-guided tours of Vancouver Island’s Rathtrevor Beach Provinical Park, and Cultus Lake and Golden Ears provincial parks on the Mainland.

A virtual sunset photography tour at Porteau Cove Provincial Park, led by Canadian photographer Jillian Brown, is also available.

Led by Island Deaf and Hard of Hearing Centre (IDHHC), in partnership with BC Parks and BC Parks Foundation, the project aims to allow more deaf individuals to fully experience and connect with the wonders of the natural world, especially children.

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While hearing children may learn about the names of trees, the habits of animals or the importance of conservation simply by overhearing conversations during a family outing, IDHCC says deaf children, especially those in families who do not use sign language, often miss out on this vicarious learning.

ASL interpretation and translations can level the playing field and share information that might have been missed, says Kristi Falconer, communications services manager for IDHHC.

“Nature is one of the places where the barriers to the deaf community are lessened,” she said in a BC Parks Foundation news release. “We can all see the beautiful trees, breathe the fresh air, and touch the mossy rocks. But when it comes to actually learning about nature, a lot of that happens vicariously.

“So having the ability to experience nature – its peace and relaxation – while also learning about it is amazing.”

For Monika, a deaf outdoor enthusiast living on Vancouver Island, a daily connection to nature has improved her life.

She says she’s happy that ASL-guided videos are now available for five B.C. provincial parks. “Bringing nature closer to the deaf community can foster awareness, understanding, and access – and help other people feel safe and welcome in our beautiful natural spaces.”

The ASL-guided videos are accessible through a QR code in the parks and at discoverparks.ca, as well as at youtube.com/@DiscoverParks-en8cb/videos

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