Tara's Story

Joshua Jones

Tara's Story is a documentary that focuses on the student protests against Gallaudet University's new president, Dr. Jane K. Fernandes. In 2006 when the Gallaudet board elected Jane Fernandes to replace Dr. I. King Jordan as the university president that upset many students. Tara shares her point of view on the appointment of the president and how Gallaudet University should be improved to meet students' expectations. Tara organized student protests to demand for the Gallaudet board to fire Dr. Fernandes and find someone more qualified to best serve Galluadet University. One night on campus, it got out of hand because IKJ ordered for the protesting students who blocked the entry to campus to be arrested.  This upset so many students and supporters to discover that Dr. Jordan was capable of doing that, especially given his previous involvement in DPN. 

This film gave me a better perceptive about Gallaudet’s  protest back in 2006. I liked how Tara describe situations very clearly and to be easily understood, and also to show her passion for Gallaudet University.  Anyone who doesn't buy this argument, "Jane is not deaf enough", should watch this film because it tells much more of the story about what really was going on there.  Highly recommended.


Editor's Note: The story of the Unity for Gallaudet protest is messy and complex, with no easy answers or handy sound bites. I am still processing those events as I reflect and remember. You can check this youtube page for the postings from the UFG supporters to hear more about their story. I also found this blog entry which has many more links so you can explore this in more depth.