Dorothy “Dot” Miles was a poet and activist renowned as a pioneer in the deaf community. She launches her poems in British English, English, and American Sign Language. Her meaningful contribution laid the foundations for modern sign language poetry in the UK and the US.
Dorothy Miles’ vision was of deaf and hearing people learning, developing, and working together. Dot's hearing capabilities were lost at the age of eight when she contracted cerebrospinal meningitis. Her disability doesn’t stop her from achieving her goals; she goes straight to her hard work, earning a scholarship to study at the University of Washington, D.C., recognized as the first junior-class member to join the esteemed Gallaudet Phi Alpha Pi Honor Society.
After she graduated in 1961, she pursued her passion for theatre, joined the newly established National Theatre of the Deaf, and began developing sign language poetry that engaged both deaf and hearing audiences, aiming to connect and unify both communities.
She is considered a trailblazer in BSL poetry, with her work inspiring many modern Deaf poets.
Pioneering Contributions to Deaf Media and Education
She quickly became involved in the National Union of Deaf’s pioneering television, after spending 20 years in America, and when she returned to England in 1977.
She also played a crucial role in discussions that led to the creation of the See Hear television series. Additionally, she assembled the first teaching manual for BSL tutors and became involved in setting up the Council for the Advancement of Communication with Deaf People.
Exploring the Life of Dorothy "Dot" Miles
This drama-documentary, including BSL and English subtitles, uncovers the life of Dorothy “Dot” Miles, who passed away in 1993. She showcased her journey from being born hearing to becoming deaf due to meningitis and highlighted her deep passion for sign languages, poetry, English, theatre, and music.
The documentary reveals Dot’s struggles with bipolar disorder and mental health challenges. Her life inspired many around the globe who are struggling and encountering the same issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How did Dorothy Miles become deaf?
Dorothy was born with hearing ability, but later at the age of 8, she encountered meningitis, which left her deaf at this early age.
2. What happened to Dorothy Miles?
Dorothy Miles committed suicide, falling from a second-floor window.
3. What challenges did Dorothy Miles face?
Dorothy overcame numerous challenges, including losing her hearing at the age of eight, periods of mental illness, and many hardships throughout her life.
