For the third blog on CSD’s 50th Anniversary this year, we began by sharing how we’ve lifted and supported Deaf communities through resources, mentorship, and collective strength since our founding in 1975. Now, we turn to Open, the next part of our story.  

For much of history, the door to a vibrant, thriving Deaf livelihood was shut. Not because Deaf people lacked intelligence or ability, but because society would not, or could not, provide access. Before the rise of assistive tools in the 20th century, Deaf autonomy was constrained by the limited communication methods of the time, such using pen and paper. Many also relied on others for information and communication, like neighbors, families, and friends. We knew our community needed something more, a different kind of doorway to move through independently. 

The answer wouldn’t come from technology alone. It required something larger than the tangible: a shift in mindset. A change in how society sees Deaf people, and in how Deaf people see themselves. It reflected what true access really means, which is opening both doors and minds. This twofold approach was central to CSD’s mission, especially during a time when opening minds was desperately needed, as it still is today. After all, how can Deaf people develop a healthy sense of self-worth if they do not see other Deaf people in leadership positions, or as innovators and role models in this world? 

In time, progress came. The Deaf community began reclaiming its power through key moments in history. Moments that pushed conversations forward, including the recognition of ASL as a language, the Deaf President Now movement, and the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Today, Deaf identity and language pride are stronger than ever.  

Here are some key CSD moments that helped open doors for the community. 

Bringing Video Relay Services to Life

In 1999, CSD piloted Video Remote Interpreting (VRI), a method for facilitating real-time video conversations in American Sign Language (ASL) for when interpreters couldn't be present on-site. From this foundation, a new call center model emerged: Video Relay Service (VRS). This allowed Deaf people to call hearing people through interpreters at VRS call centers, using real-time video conversations in ASL.  This signaled a shift from outdated text-based TTY systems to natural, face-to-face communication. It also set the stage for exponential growth and hiring of Deaf employees in the following years, with VRS companies also becoming one of the largest employers in the Deaf community. These services opened more access to education, healthcare, employment, and daily life in powerful new ways.

Creating Deaf-Friendly Customer Support

In 2004, CSD partnered with AOL to launch one of the first ASL-accessible tech support teams. Deaf users could now get help directly in their own language, without using relay services. This redefined customer support and helped set new standards for how companies think about accessibility.

Expanding Access Internationally

In 2011, CSD expanded globally for the first time, bringing TRS, nationwide video interpreting, and equipment distribution services to New Zealand. This was our first international expansion and showed that communication access belongs to all Deaf people, regardless of geography or sign language.  

Exploring Holoportation Technology

In 2024, through its Social Venture Fund (SVF), CSD partnered with Proto Inc. to test new 3D communication technology. Known as holoportation, it allows Deaf people to engage in real-time, life-sized ASL conversations using holographic projection. Instead of relying on flat video screens, users feel a sense of presence, making communication more natural and human. This innovation is opening new doors in areas like education, customer service, and healthcare.

Changing Minds and Raising Expectations 

Access is only part of the story. At CSD, we also work to change how people think. We want the world to see Deaf people as leaders, innovators, and creators. We want Deaf people to see themselves the same way. The ability to lead exists in every person. What matters is having the language and opportunity to use it. That means creating more chances to be seen, heard, and respected. 

From Opening to Growing

Creating access and shifting mindsets means more than breaking down obstacles. It means building new systems and pathways that reflect Deaf values, language, and needs. Like a garden, Deaf communities flourish when nurtured with support, resources, and respect. At CSD, we take pride in opening new possibilities through technology, partnerships, and leadership. Our work always focuses on what comes next, helping Deaf communities grow into spaces of happiness, peace, full lives, and equal access in every aspect. The doors we open today plant the seeds for Deaf communities to lead and thrive tomorrow.