Deaf researcher from Mexico to attend summer school

Erik Arellano, a passionate Deaf researcher from Mexico, has this excellent opportunity to attend the deaf-run summer school of sign language studies at Humboldt University Berlin (Germany) in July 2025—a rare opportunity to connect with and learn from fellow Deaf researchers from around the world.

Erik is about to finish his BA Communications at UACM (Universidad Autónoma de la Ciudad de México) and he hopes to start his MA/PhD in sign language linguistics. Mexican Sign Language (LSM) is his first language, Spanish being his 2nd. He has knowledge of American Sign Language and International Signs. He is the president of CoPeSor (Coalición de Personas Sordas) a national deaf activist coalition and he works as an experienced Deaf interpreter interpreting in LSM/IS/ASL/visual Spanish.

In Mexico, resources for Deaf academic research and professional Deaf researchers, especially in Mexican Sign Language (LSM), are extremely limited (especially with limited access to fundings etc). This summer school represents a unique chance for Erik to expand his knowledge, build an international network, and bring valuable insights back to his community in Mexico.

Many Deaf researchers have already said they will support through both small and generous donations, believing in the importance of representation and collaboration across borders. Your donation—no matter the size—will help make Erik's journey possible - paying for his flight and his accommodation in Berlin. By supporting Erik, you’re investing in the future of Deaf research and helping to strengthen Deaf-led academia and Deaf leadership. Let’s come together to make this opportunity a reality. Thank you for your support!

Erik is vouched for by Dr. Lina Hou and Shane Gilchrist.

Link for the Summer School:

https://www.tlu.ee/en/summer-school-sign-language-studies