Thank You From Shirley

Hello! I’m Shirley, the Acting CEO.

I wanted to provide you with this video because today is the 28th of June. It’s a big day for us because most of our staff are busy wrapping up their projects as their roles are ending today. It’s not everyone, a couple of people are continuing at DA.

Overall, we wanted to say a big thank you to you all. All the staff agree that we want to recognise you all, either as individuals, deaf organisations and businesses, our partners and allies. All of this has been a massive support to us and our work for the past few years. It’s been incredibly valuable. Thank you.

Also I, myself, really appreciate those of you who took the time to check in with our staff after they saw the news about the impact on funding, which was unfortunate and sad. To make sure they felt supported through a restructure of their future plans. Really big thanks to those who recognise that we we are also a part of the deaf community and provide support to each other during a hard time or life’s ups and downs. We really appreciate that.

Yes, Jen our CEO, will be back to work starting next week. But as the board announced recently her role will be reduced to part time. Also, we still have a few advocacy initiatives ongoing ensure a fair and equitable access for the deaf community. Keep an eye on our social media to follow and continue supporting our work. We are really excited to show some opportunities coming up soon. Yes, this group of staff was fantastic to have as support through difficult time and we know they will have our deaf community support moving forward and stay connected. Thanks to you all and thanks to the board for their support through this difficult time as well. Have a good weekend! Bye.

Shirley is wearing a black shirt and standing in front of a plain beige wall. Her hair is pulled back into a bun. She is signing in a professional, friendly, and slightly bittersweet way that is appropriate to the tone of the content.