Riverside agency prepares for deaf festival and promotes local artists at gala

The Riverside County Commission of the Deaf convened on May 14, 2025, to discuss several important topics, including upcoming events and accessibility issues for the deaf community.

One of the key highlights was the promotion of a new online platform, riversdeathriverside.com, designed to serve as a central hub for various community events. Vice Chair Anderson noted that the site is gaining traction, with increasing clicks and engagement, and aims to provide visibility for events such as the upcoming Riverside Blue Zones initiative.

Commissioner Rasmus reported on a recent presentation to the mayor, where concerns were raised about the lack of interpreter access at city events. This issue underscores the ongoing need for improved communication access for the deaf community. Rasmus also mentioned the upcoming Deaf Festival scheduled for September, which aims to celebrate deaf culture and community.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted a wine and cheese gala featuring Jennifer Tandock, a deaf artist from the California School for the Deaf, whose artwork is currently displayed at the Riverside Art Museum. This event is expected to culminate in a week-long residency for Tandock, showcasing her contributions to the local arts scene.

The commission also discussed recent experiences with virtual meetings, emphasizing the importance of accessibility features such as chat functions and interpreters. Participants shared positive feedback about Riverside TV's efforts to accommodate deaf attendees, indicating a collaborative approach to improving communication in public forums.

Overall, the meeting reflected a commitment to enhancing accessibility and promoting cultural events within the deaf community in Riverside County. The commission plans to continue addressing these issues and fostering community engagement in the future.