The NOLA deaf community learned that Deaf Action Center New Orleans (DACNO) lost 2 critical contracts with the LA Commission for the Deaf (LCD).   The Deaf community just like DAC Shreveport was shocked to find out LCD took the contracts from DACNO.  We have a right to decided who we want to serve us. LCD should not decide for us.  LCD awarded the contracts to another agency that we never met or worked with in the past. Both have no knowledge of our needs.  We are very satisfied with DACNO services and prefer to continue working with them.

Therefore we the Deaf community is asking you to consider signing this petition to allow the deaf to have rights to choose. And for it to take the following actions:

1.  Cease any contractual arrangements for interpreting services and equipment distribution services with other agencies in New Orleans and contract with the Deaf Action Center New Orleans for these services.

2.  Even though the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf is not required to solicit Requests for Proposals (RFPs); to immediately establish an RFP process by which agencies can submit proposals to demonstrate their fitness to provide specific services.

3.  And, further, to establish an oversight committee made up of commission members and consumers to oversee the selection, awarding, and fulfillment of LCD contracts