Deaf President Now! (2025)
Story overview
This documentary chronicles the pivotal 1988 Deaf President Now protest at Gallaudet University, the world's only university for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Over eight intense days, four student leaders organize a campus-wide movement demanding the appointment of the university's first deaf president, challenging institutional ableism and sparking a landmark civil rights victory for the Deaf community.
Parent Guide
Educational documentary about a significant civil rights protest in Deaf history. Suitable for mature elementary students and up with parental guidance to discuss the historical context and themes of discrimination and activism.
Content breakdown
Nonviolent protest scenes including sit-ins, blocking entrances, and confrontations with police. No physical violence shown, but tension is present as authorities respond to civil disobedience.
Emotional intensity during protest moments and discussions of discrimination against deaf people. Some viewers might find the injustice depicted upsetting.
No offensive language noted. Communication is primarily through American Sign Language with captions.
No sexual content or nudity.
No substance use depicted.
Strong emotional content related to civil rights struggle, discrimination, and the passion of the protest movement. Triumphant moments are balanced with tense confrontations.
Parent tips
This film offers a powerful, educational look at disability rights activism. While there are no graphic scenes, the documentary captures the emotional intensity of the protest, including moments of confrontation and civil disobedience. It's an excellent opportunity to discuss social justice, disability history, and nonviolent protest with older children and teens. The film is presented with open captions and ASL, making it accessible to all viewers.
Parent chat guide
Parent follow-up questions
- What does it mean to be deaf?
- How do people who can't hear talk to each other?
- Why were the students holding signs?
- Why did the students want a deaf president?
- What does 'protest' mean?
- How did the students work together to make change?
- What made this protest different from other civil rights movements?
- Why was Gallaudet University so important to the Deaf community?
- What leadership qualities did the student organizers show?
- How does this protest connect to broader disability rights movements?
- What institutional barriers did the Deaf community face in 1988 that still exist today?
- How does media representation of disability affect public perception?
Where to watch
Choose region:
- Apple TV
- Apple TV Amazon Channel
Trailer
Trailer playback is unavailable in your region.
