A Look Back at the Timeline Mapping Event

On 14th November 2024, the Deaf community in Walsall came together for an inspiring Timeline Mapping event, part of our ongoing efforts to celebrate and document the 100 Year Heritage of Walsall Deaf Community project. This project is made possible thanks to National Lottery Players and The National Lottery Heritage Fund. This event, held in a warm and welcoming space at The Table Cafe in Walsall, was a true testament to the power of collaboration and pride in our collective history. 

There was an impressive three-meter-long paper timeline (created by our wonderful volunteers), stretching across the room and inviting participants to contribute their memories, knowledge, and insights. This timeline was not just a display; it was a living, breathing piece of history, growing richer as community members added their milestones throughout the event. 

From key events that shaped the Deaf community in Walsall to personal recollections or family, education, and activism, every contribution highlighted the depth and diversity of experiences within the community. This event would not have been possible without the hard work of our dedicated volunteers and the support of community members. 

The Timeline Mapping event is just one step in our journey to preserve and celebrate the heritage of the Walsall Deaf Community. The contributions made during the event will form a crucial part of the documentary. 

We extend our thanks to everyone who attended, contributed, and made the day a success. 

If you’d like to get involved or stay updated on the project’s progress, keep an eye out for updates or email Robyn at robyn@zebra-access.com. 

Stay Updated: 
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Instagram: @Zebra_Access 
LinkedIn: Zebra Access 
Facebook: @ZebraAccess 

About Zebra Access:
Zebra Access is a truly Deaf-led charity recognised by the Deaf community as dedicated to developing opportunities for Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing people to have better chances in life and enjoy equal participation and access without communication barriers, providing access to a range of activities enabling Deaf people to have self-belief and confidence to achieve their aspirations by breaking down perceived barriers. Zebra Access aims to promote and advocate healthier lifestyles by raising and improving awareness of available activities and other health choices. We have pioneered effective ways of working with Deaf people providing fully accessible services to provide Deaf customers with holistic and empathetic support via our experts-through-experience members of staff and volunteers.

About The National Lottery Heritage Fund: 
The National Lottery Heritage Fund is the largest funder for the UK’s heritage. Using money raised by National Lottery players we support projects that connect people and communities to heritage. Our vision is for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future. From historic buildings, our industrial legacy and the natural environment, to collections, traditions, stories and more. Heritage can be anything from the past that people value and want to pass on to future generations. We believe in the power of heritage to ignite the imagination, offer joy and inspiration, and to build pride in place and connection to the past.