Celebrating A Trailblazing Poet And Activist

Google Honors Deaf Poet Dorothy Miles with a Doodle

Celebrating a Trailblazing Poet and Activist

On August 19, Google unveiled a Doodle honoring Dorothy Miles, a renowned deaf Welsh poet and community activist. Miles's groundbreaking work in sign language poetry and her advocacy for the deaf community left an indelible mark on the world.

A Pioneer in Sign Language Poetry

Dorothy Miles (née Squire) was born in 1909 in Swansea, Wales. At the age of two, she lost her hearing due to scarlet fever. Despite this challenge, Miles found solace in poetry, using sign language as her medium of expression.

Miles's sign language poems were a revelation, capturing the beauty and complexity of human experience through graceful hand gestures and facial expressions. Her work defied conventional notions of poetry and challenged audiences to reconsider the boundaries of communication.

An Advocate for the Deaf Community

Beyond her poetic endeavors, Miles was a passionate advocate for the deaf community. She founded the British Deaf and Dumb Society (BDDS) in 1935, an organization that provided support and resources to deaf individuals.

Miles tirelessly campaigned for access to education, employment, and social services for the deaf. Her advocacy helped shape legislation and policies that improved the lives of countless deaf people in the United Kingdom and beyond.

Legacy of Empowerment

Dorothy Miles's work as a poet and activist has left a lasting legacy of empowerment for the deaf community. Her groundbreaking contributions to sign language poetry have inspired a new generation of artists and performers.

Moreover, her advocacy has paved the way for greater inclusivity and accessibility for deaf individuals. Miles's tireless efforts have helped create a more just and equitable society for all.

Google Doodle Honoring a Hero

Google's Doodle on August 19 celebrates the remarkable life and work of Dorothy Miles. By featuring her portrait in sign language, the search engine giant recognizes the significance of Miles's art and her unwavering commitment to the deaf community.

This Doodle is a fitting tribute to a woman who broke down barriers, championed inclusivity, and left an enduring legacy of inspiration for generations to come.