Early 1980s: Deaf schools are run by hearing administrators, many of whom know no sign language.

Today: Many schools for the deaf, including Gallaudet University, now have deaf leaders.

Early 1980s: People with hearing handicaps are routinely discriminated against for jobs, in housing, and in access to services.

Today: With the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, hearing impaired individuals have the necessary leverage to find success in the job market, obtain decent housing, and utilize a wide range of services to assist them in pursuit of their goals.