Let's travel back in time, even before the United States was a nation, to a remarkable place called Martha's Vineyard. This island, the first stop for many of the Pilgrims who arrived on the Mayflower in 1620, holds a unique story about communication and inclusion. While the Pilgrims came seeking a fresh start, they unknowingly brought something else with them – a genetic predisposition for hereditary deafness. This, combined with the naturally occurring deaf population on the island, led to the emergence of a vibrant signing community. Unlike most places at the time, where deafness often meant isolation, Martha's Vineyard fostered a culture of inclusion.