Helen Keller Day

Helen Keller was an American author, lecturer, and political activist who was born on June 27, 1880. She was the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree and her life story continues to inspire people all over the world. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter declared June 27th as Helen Keller Day. This day is celebrated to honor her achievements and to raise awareness about the plight of people with disabilities. In this blog post, we will take a journey through the life of this extraordinary woman and commemorate her incredible legacy.

Journey Through The Life Of Helen Keller

Early Life

Helen Keller was born in Tuscumbia, Alabama, to Arthur H. Keller and Kate Adams Keller. She was a healthy and happy baby until the age of 19 months when she contracted an illness that left her deaf and blind. Her parents were devastated and did not know how to communicate with their daughter. Helen became frustrated and angry, often throwing tantrums. Her parents tried to find a solution and eventually contacted Alexander Graham Bell who suggested they reach out to the Perkins Institute for the Blind.

At the age of 7, Helen met Anne Sullivan, a 20-year-old teacher, who would become her lifelong friend and mentor. Anne was able to break through Helen's isolation and teach her how to communicate using sign language. Helen was a quick learner and soon she was able to communicate with her family and friends. Anne also taught Helen how to read Braille and how to write using a special typewriter.

Education

Helen was a bright student, and Anne was determined to provide her with a good education. In 1894, at the age of 14, Helen enrolled in the Wright-Humason School for the Deaf in New York City. She was an excellent student and soon caught the attention of William James, a renowned psychologist, who introduced her to the famous author Mark Twain.

In 1900, Helen attended Radcliffe College, where she became the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. She continued to study and write throughout her life, and her books and lectures inspired people all over the world.

Activism

Helen was not content with just achieving success for herself. She was a passionate advocate for people with disabilities and worked tirelessly to improve their lives. She was a member of the Socialist Party of America and campaigned for women's suffrage, labor rights, and other social issues.

During World War II, Helen supported the war effort and worked with the American Foundation for the Blind to help soldiers who had lost their sight in battle. She also traveled extensively, giving lectures and raising awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

Helen Keller Day

Helen Keller Day is celebrated every year on June 27th to honor her life and achievements. This day is an opportunity to raise awareness about the struggles faced by people with disabilities and to celebrate their abilities and achievements.

On this day, people all over the world participate in various events and activities to commemorate Helen Keller's legacy. Schools and universities organize lectures and discussions about her life, while museums and galleries exhibit her artwork and personal belongings. Some organizations also organize charity events to raise funds for people with disabilities.