July 10, 2026
On behalf of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) Board of Directors, I want to acknowledge the concerns expressed by members of our community regarding the NAD’s Zero Tolerance Policy, including its title, language, and implementation. We sincerely appreciate the thoughtful feedback that has been shared.
We recognize that the phrase “zero tolerance” carries significant historical context and has been associated with policies and practices that resulted in disproportionate harm and inequitable outcomes for marginalized communities. We also recognize that members of our community may experience this language differently because of those historical associations. It is important that NAD’s policies and language reflect our values of equity, inclusion, accountability, fairness, respect, and belonging.
The current Zero Tolerance Policy is not new. It has been in effect during the past several biennial national conferences and applies to NAD-sponsored events, programs, meetings, and other authorized activities. Its purpose has been to protect individuals from discrimination, harassment, bullying, oppression, abuse, retaliation, and other harmful conduct, while fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for everyone participating in NAD activities.
As President of the NAD Board of Directors, I am committed to leading the Board through a thoughtful and comprehensive review of the policy, including its title, language, implementation, and related procedures. Although the policy was adopted to promote safety, accountability, and respect, we recognize that good intentions do not replace the need to understand how the language is interpreted and experienced by our community.
As part of this review, the Board will consider community perspectives on whether the policy’s title should better reflect values such as accountability, safety, respect, inclusion, and restorative approaches. No decisions have been made, and the Board will carefully evaluate all feedback before determining whether any changes are appropriate.
During this review, the current policy will remain in effect to ensure continued protections for all participants. Reports received under the policy will continue to be addressed through established procedures while respecting confidentiality, applicable law, organizational policies, and principles of fairness.
The Board is committed to sharing updates with our community as this review progresses and to communicating any changes that result from this process.
We are grateful to everyone who has shared their perspectives. Open and honest communication, thoughtful reflection, and a willingness to learn from one another strengthen our organization and help ensure that every member of our community is treated with dignity, fairness, respect, and belonging.
Together, we NAD rise.
Stephanie Hakulin
President, NAD Board of Directors