Author: delawaredeaf_lzc8h1

Below is DAD’s proposed Bylaw changes for the upcoming statewide meeting on November 15, 2025.

Cross outs = removals
Red words = new 

ARTICLE TWO. Objectives    MISSION AND VISION

• 2.01 General Goals and Objectives. MISSION

The objective of the Association shall be to preserve, protect, and promote the civil, human, and linguistic rights of the D/deaf, Hard of Hearing, late- deafened, and DeafBlind individuals in Delaware.

Self-advocacy and empowerment will be two ways of achieving the Association’s goals.

The acquisition and use of American Sign Language is an essential human right.

The Association practices an environment that is free of audism, racism, sexism, ageism, linguicism and other forms of discrimination.

The Association promotes and protects the mutual interests of all member organizations of the Association.

The Delaware Association of the Deaf (DAD) advances the rights of d/Deaf, hard of hearing, late-deafened, and DeafBlind people in Delaware through advocacy, education, and leadership.  We promote American Sign Language and empower inclusion, equality, and vibrant community connection.

• 2.02 VISION

 The Delaware Association of the Deaf (DAD) exists to empower and unify d/Deaf, hard of hearing late-deafened, and DeafBlind individuals across Delaware.  We champion civil, human, and linguistic rights through advocacy, education, and community engagement.

 Our vision is rooted in the belief that American Sign Language is a fundamental human right, and we strive to cultivate a society free from audism, racism, sexism, ageism, linguicism, and all forms of discrimination.  Together, we amplify voices, foster self-advocacy, and build bridges across diverse communities. 

• 4.04 Assumption of Office. 

Elected Officers shall assume their respective duties immediately after adjournment of the annual meeting. Appointed Board Members shall start their respective duties no later than sixty (60) days after adjournment. Organizational Affiliate Board Members shall start their respective duties no later than thirty (30) days after the meeting.  It is expected that all board members shall attend at least 3/4 of all meetings each year within reason.  Good communication is essential to ensure quorum is established at meetings. 

• 4.06 Duties of the Board of Directors. 

• Immediate Past President. 

The Immediate Past President shall confer with the President and provide input to the Board of Directors, the Immediate Past President shall serve on the Board of Directors and be granted voting privileges.  Immediate Past President’s term shall be two (2) years and can be released sooner if so desired. 

• 6.04 Quorum

Quorum shall be based on filled positions.  

• 9.01 Proposed Amendments. 

These bylaws may be amended by a two thirds (2/3) vote of the members present and voting at the annual meeting provided that amendments are submitted to the Bylaws Committee sixty (60) days prior to the annual meeting, that copies are distributed to the members at least thirty (30) days prior to the annual meeting, and that amendments are read during the annual meeting.

Any amendments or motions passed at the annual meeting shall become effective immediately, unless specified otherwise. National Association of the Deaf (NAD) related and approved motions shall be delivered by the Delaware Delegation for submission to the NAD.