Film Discussion Questions

Films

• Deaf in Prison (25:19)
• Breaking Silence (18:06)
  • HEARD introduction in English & American Sign Language

The two films we have selected for you share different perspectives on the experiences of deaf/disabled people directly impacted by carceral systems in the united states. “Deaf in Prison” offers firsthand accounts from currently incarcerated people, family members, and HEARD’s founder, Talila A. Lewis, many of which are still relevant to this day. “Breaking Silence” offers a snapshot into the life of a deaf father and advocate in Louisiana, who shares the challenges he faced while his Coda daughter was incarcerated and the work he does to support deaf formerly incarcerated people in his community. Together, we hope that these two films serve as political openings in your advocacy as they invite crucial discussions about the intersections of deaf culture, disability, and the abolishment of the prison-industrial complex.

1. What were your initial reactions to the films? Were any particular scenes or moments especially powerful, disturbing, or surprising?
   
2. Were there any moments in the films that challenged you to think in new ways?

3. Was there information in the films that was new to you? If yes, what information?
   
4. Did anything happen in these films that reminded you of something that has occurred in your own life or that you have seen occur in the lives of others in your community?

5. What are some of the harms that you see policing, prisons, or parole/community supervision enacting in these films?
   
6. What are deaf/disabled people missing in our communities that we need? What are some barriers that prevent people from living their best and healthiest lives? What problems do these barriers cause?
   
7. What are ways your communities could create safety without involving the police or prisons?

8. In Breaking Silence, we see Walker supporting formerly and currently incarcerated deaf/disabled people in his community by delivering groceries, giving rides, and visiting prisons. What are people in your community doing to support currently or formerly incarcerated people locally? What can audience members do to join or support their efforts?
   

Gratitude to Beyond Walls: 5 Films for Prison Industrial Complex Abolition for inspiration for these questions.