The Association is a nonprofit member organization consisted of volunteers from local communities in California. Individual members have voting privileges at the Board of Directors meetings and at the Biennial Conference. The Association is open to all groups within the Deaf community without discrimination, and individuals may serve in any appointed positions or on any committees. More information here.

Anyone can become a member. More info here!

We protect your rights as a Deaf person, as well as advocate for issues that affect the general Deaf population. Contact us for more information how we can help!

CAD will serve as a watchdog for legislation and court proceedings and provide input on state policies as they relate to Deaf people and Signed Languages.

CAD recognizes American Sign Language (ASL) as the most accessible and natural language of and for the Deaf in America and therefore supports all activities that will preserve, honor, and promote ASL and Deaf Culture.

CAD acknowledges that employment opportunities for Deaf Californians are still limited due to discrimination. There is much work to be done to improve the economic status of Deaf people. CAD will support the development of innovative employment opportunities by working with appropriate state and local agencies to improve entry into a wider variety of careers. CAD also supports and celebrates Deaf entrepreneurs who own their own business.

CAD acknowledges that there is a growing variety of communication systems, including telecommunications, and tools available to empower the Deaf individuals with their day-to-day activities. Therefore, CAD will work with individuals and agencies to ensure that they provide the highest quality service, maintain trust and respect deaf peoples’ preference for communication access.

CAD is engaged in public relations to show Deaf people of all walks in life in a positive light. CAD also maintains a vigorous role in referring and aiding advocacy programs for Deaf people’s rights in the state of California. CAD works closely with the California Coalition of Agencies Serving Deaf and Hard of Hearing. CAD also works collaboratively with Deaf agencies and programs such as DeafHope and Bay Area Black Deaf Advocates (BBABDA).

CAD will provide referrals to various organizations throughout the state that exist to provide services, as well as other types of support, for Deaf Californians.

CAD will work closely with local/statewide businesses by attending chamber of commerce meetings in order to establish potential business ventures for Deaf entrepreneurs. This is to provide greater economic opportunities for the Deaf people to make a positive impact within the Deaf community.

Visit our Deaf Entrepreneurs page