Considering that Rochester has one of the highest per-capita deaf populations in the United States, it's a shame that more of our hearing population isn't bilingual. Even if you don't know American Sign Language, you can learn more about our deaf community and culture during Rochester Deaf Awareness Week, which takes place September 23-29.

During the week, Rochester Recreation Club for the Deaf and Genesee Valley Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf will present more than 30 workshops, lectures, performances, and exhibits throughout the city designed to enhance public awareness of the deaf community. Highlights include mini-classes in basic sign language, a 19th century baseball game to commemorate deaf player William "Dummy" Hoy, and performances by two nationally recognized performers, Jag Einhorn and Dana Charles Hughes.

A kickoff ceremony takes place Sunday, September 23, 1-3 p.m. in the MCC Theatre (building 4, 1000 E. Henrietta Rd.), followed by a reception in the North Atrium (building 12). Many events are free and open to the public, and interpreted for the hearing, but some workshops require an RSVP. For a complete schedule and information, visit rdaw.org.