Hearing and Deaf Cultures Unite at Massapequa Comedy Show

Tapping into funny moments from both childhood and his adult years, comedian Brad Klein entertained about 700 students from American Sign Language programs during a performance at Massapequa High School on Nov. 8.

Mr. Klein is a CODA, a child of deaf adults, and shared his experiences growing up around both the deaf and hearing communities. His show was performed both verbally and in sign language. He explained that he uses his hearing privilege to advocate for deaf rights, and the best way to do that is through laughter.

In addition to his stand-up routines, Mr. Klein has made several videos with his parents about being a CODA and the differences between hearing and deaf. He played several of these for students.

“It’s OK to laugh at the little things that make us unique,” he said.

The program ended with a question and answer session, as students from 16 schools on Long Island and Queens inquired about a range of topics. The program was hosted by Massapequa’s World Language Department and the ASL Club and coordinated by teacher Melanie Smith. There was also an evening performance for members of the deaf community and hearing people who know ASL.  

Massapequa ASL Club co-presidents Kayleigh Kennedy, a senior, and Dylan Lukowski, a junior, were excited to offer this experience to not only their Massapequa peers, but ASL students at other schools.

“It’s really great because it spreads awareness of a beautiful community,” Kayleigh said. “Being able to build bridges between the hearing and deaf worlds is amazing. Hopefully this will lead to students becoming more personally invested in learning ASL.”

Dylan, who is in his third year taking ASL, said the language was introduced to him by an older friend. It has allowed him to experience and gain perspective on another culture.