Maryland Deaf Access Committee (MDAC)

Origin and Mission

The Maryland Deaf Access Committee (MDAC) was established in June 2023 through the Area 29 Accessibilities Committee. Its formation followed a series of workshops led by a lifelong professional in the Deaf substance abuse and recovery field who came highly recommended by Gallaudet University.

That momentum continued at the 51st Maryland State Convention, where, for the first time, full American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation was provided for the main events, workshops, and fellowship activities. Meeting several local Deaf AA members during the convention confirmed the need for greater accessibility and inspired the formation of MDAC.

Our primary mission is to provide ASL interpretation at AA meetings wherever there is a need in Maryland.

Evolution and Structure

MDAC was originally established as an Area 29 committee to coordinate ASL-interpreted AA meetings throughout Maryland. However, because Area policy restricted the committee's ability to receive independent financial contributions, MDAC separated from Area 29 in December 2023 and reorganized as an independent Ninth Tradition AA committee—run by alcoholics, for alcoholics.

Our founding leadership included a Deaf AA member from Baltimore serving as chairperson and a hearing AA member serving as treasurer. The committee also benefited from the guidance of a late-deafened AA member with decades of experience working alongside the West Coast Deaf recovery community and many years of continuous sobriety.

Together with another Deaf member, our leadership team developed and presented an informational program to AA groups throughout Maryland. Accompanied by a ASL interpreter, they traveled wherever invited to introduce the committee's purpose and encourage fellowship support for Deaf alcoholics seeking recovery.

Growth and Operations

Our outreach connected us with a member of the Baltimore Agape Group, who generously offered to host Deaf AA members. A Tuesday evening meeting was established using two laptops to allow an in-person ASL interpreter to effectively serve both hearing and Deaf participants.

After the first month, it became clear that consistent accessibility required additional meeting opportunities. Over the following months, MDAC gradually expanded its services until a full weekly Tuesday rotation was established. Today, the committee supports two fully in-person meetings and three hybrid meetings with professional ASL interpretation.

MDAC continues to focus on fellowship outreach and education, helping AA members recognize that Deaf alcoholics are actively seeking accessible meetings. We encourage Home Groups to include MDAC in their Seventh Tradition contributions so these services can continue to grow.

Under the guidance of experienced Deaf AA members, MDAC exclusively hires certified ASL interpreters to ensure high-quality communication access. In keeping with the Seventh Tradition, the committee is fully self-supporting through contributions from AA members, Home Groups, and districts.

Current Activities

MDAC meets monthly on the second Sunday at 4:30 p.m. to discuss ongoing projects and opportunities for expansion.

The committee has hosted informational booths at numerous community events.

We are especially pleased to welcome two new members from the Frederick area of western Maryland, where the Deaf population continues to grow. Their local involvement has strengthened our presence in the region, and one member has already established relationships with several certified ASL interpreters. As funding becomes available, MDAC will be well positioned to expand services in western Maryland.

Like many Deaf Access Committees and Hospital & Institution (H&I) committees, MDAC utilizes a Yellow Can to receive voluntary contributions. Experience has shown that when the committee's mission is briefly explained and the Yellow Can is passed during a meeting, it creates awareness, visually connects members with the need for Deaf accessibility, and provides direct financial support for ASL interpretation services.

Looking Forward

MDAC remains committed to carrying the message of Alcoholics Anonymous to Deaf and hard-of-hearing alcoholics throughout Maryland. By working alongside AA groups, districts, and trusted servants, we strive to ensure that every alcoholic has an opportunity to experience recovery through the Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous.