BSL Pioneer Looks to Improve Access For Deaf Jews in Shuls Across the UK

Bridging the gap between the Jewish and deaf communities is a mission of personal and cultural significance for BSL pioneer Vicki Ashmore. For many deaf Jewish families, such as the Malinskys, a lack of accessible services has historically led to a sense of isolation. "We feel let down by the Jewish community," explains Tina Malinsky, a sixth-generation deaf person. Without British Sign Language (BSL) support, traditional synagogue services often remain out of reach, forcing many to feel more at home in the wider deaf culture than within their own religious heritage. Vicki Ashmore is working tirelessly to change this narrative.

 

Raised in an Orthodox community and boasting a rich background in Jewish education, Vicki now uses her expertise to reintroduce families to their cultural roots. Through her dedicated work, she helps deaf individuals navigate everything from Shabbat customs to the importance of Israel, ensuring that no one is left behind due to a communication barrier. Her efforts have recently supported Josh Malinsky, the seventh generation of his family to be deaf, as he prepares for his milestone Bar Mitzvah.At the heart of this movement is the Jewish Deaf Association (JDA) in Finchley. The JDA serves as a vital hub for education and inclusivity, hosting exhibitions that allow both Jewish and non-Jewish members of the deaf community to explore Jewish beliefs. Vicki’s contribution at the JDA includes overseeing educational visits and fostering an environment where BSL is the primary bridge to spiritual and communal connection.To address the ongoing need for accessible worship, Vicki launched 'DeafShul.' This initiative provides monthly Friday night services specifically designed to enable deaf people to participate fully in Judaism. By creating a space where sign language is the norm, DeafShul removes the obstacles found in hearing-centric synagogues, allowing participants to learn and pray in a way that resonates with their identity.

 

For Josh Malinsky, preparing for his Bar Mitzvah with Vicki has been a transformative experience. He will finger-spell his parashah, marking his transition into adulthood with a deep sense of responsibility. Josh hopes that more people will learn basic sign language to become truly inclusive. His journey represents a broader "journey of return" for his entire family, who have now found a welcoming home at the East London & Essex Liberal Synagogue.Vicki believes that the current lack of accessibility is a "complete injustice." She is on a mission to shift the community’s philosophy toward genuine inclusion. "The deaf community really is special," Vicki says. "Anyone who is Jewish and profoundly deaf is a member of our community as much as any of us. They are our people, and they have been excluded for far too long." Through DeafShul and the JDA, that exclusion is finally coming to an end.