Gil Eastman & Deaf Mosaic

I just received the news that Gil Eastman has passed away yesterday. He died of cancer. I grew up watching the television program called “Deaf Mosaic” in which he was a co-host. I loved that program, and that was where I learned so much about deaf history and culture, considering the fact that I was mainstreamed with a few other deaf students. This past summer, I went to Gallaudet for their summer program, and I stayed in the dorm. I was able to watch the re-runs late at night, and remembered some of the episodes. I remember thinking I wish it was re-running on PBS or Discovery Channel again, so that I can watch them again at home. “Deaf Mosaic” chronicles deaf events, recollections of the history, deaf professionals, and so forth. I remember the young couple decided to quit their jobs and start the chicken farm. I wonder what they’re doing now. I also remember the famous episode on “Deaf President Now,” 1988 protest. Another favorite is about the history of different deaf schools.

Gil Eastman was truly great, and he shall be remembered for his work on “Deaf Mosaic,” ASL and drama. I hope there will be a memorial on Gallaudet campus or American School for the Deaf.

I tried to find links and/or images to help you learn more about “Deaf Mosaic.” Unfortunately, there are only videos from Captioned Media Program, and that’s not much to read online. If you are deaf, you can borrow them for free. Here is one blog honoring Gil Eastman. I also did a Google search on Gil Eastman, and again, I got videos on his interviews from Captioned Media Program.

UPDATE as of 12.5.06: Gallaudet University now has a video library, where you can access to “Deaf Mosaic.” All of the “Deaf Mosaic” episodes will be online by the end of January.

UPDATE as of 12.9.06: Thanks to my friend and colleague, he sent me this lovely tribute. Check it out. Those of you who remember Gil Eastman, it will bring tears to your eyes.