EST. 1967
New Jersey Association of the Deaf, Inc.
About
The New Jersey Association of the Deaf (NJAD) is a statewide advocacy and service organization dedicated to protecting the rights, language, culture, and full inclusion of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals across New Jersey.
Mission
This Association shall be the focal point of all cooperating agencies within the State in promoting the welfare of the deaf in educational measures, in employment, in legislation, and in any other field pertaining to or affecting the Deaf in New Jersey in their pursuit of economic security, equal opportunity, and all their just rights and privileges as citizens.
Vision
-
Barriers: A New Jersey where Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing individuals live, work, and thrive without systemic barriers.
-
Language: A society where American Sign Language (ASL) and language equity are fully recognized as fundamental human rights.
-
Youth: A future where Deaf youth are empowered through mentorship to become the next generation of community leaders.
-
Policy: Robust public policy and legislative protections that actively advance the civil rights of the Deaf community.
-
Unity: A unified and inclusive community that serves as a powerful, collective voice for advocacy across the state.
The people behind the mission
NJAD is led by a dedicated team of Deaf leaders who are passionate about advocacy, accessibility, and community empowerment. Together, we work to promote equal opportunity, protect language rights, and support the well-being of Deaf individuals across New Jersey.
Our Story
In December 1967, a group of Deaf leaders came together with a shared purpose: to create a strong, unified voice for the Deaf community in New Jersey.
That vision became NJAD.
From the start, NJAD focused on protecting rights, expanding access, and ensuring Deaf individuals had equal opportunities in education, employment, and civic life. What began as a small group of determined leaders has grown into a statewide organization committed to advocacy, inclusion, and empowerment.
History
The
founders
NJAD was established by seven pioneers:
-
John Dolan
-
Jeremiah Germany
-
Albert Lisnay
-
Andrea (Haas) Panella
-
Reverend Croft Pentz
-
Charles Radvany
-
Samuel Smalls
They recognized the need for organized advocacy and community leadership. Their commitment and service created a foundation that continues to guide NJAD today.
Education and Leadership
From our first State Conference in Asbury Park to our modern initiatives, NJAD has recognized that a strong community is built on a foundation of education.
We don't just advocate for Deaf rights; we cultivate the expertise and civic literacy required to lead.
Under the legacy of leaders like Jeremiah Germany, we continue to bridge the gap between the classroom and the State House, ensuring our community is not only well-informed but prepared to take the helm of statewide advocacy.
Growing a Statewide Movement
We are building a legacy of leadership that spans from our youth to our elders, creating a unified movement that refuses to be sidelined.
Through strategic advocacy and community-driven initiatives, NJAD is mobilizing Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing New Jerseyans to reclaim our rights and shape an inclusive future together.