ASL jewelry represents actor’s love for her mother
Q: How often do you get recognized around here?
A: I have to say that when I do get recognized, people are so nice, have been so complimentary and have tried to be so respectful of me and my family.
Q: How insane was it for you when everyone realized you were the secret weapon of “A Quiet Place: Part II”? Can you say anything about the threequel that’s currently aiming for a 2025 release date?
A: It was pretty insane for me personally, and I felt a lot of responsibility. It was such an huge honor to be able to portray the first deaf character in a film that didn’t focus on the character’s deafness, and instead focused on her grit and determination to help others. It’s a character I’m honored to play.
So much credit goes to [“A Quiet Place Part II” writer-director] John Krasinski for writing that character. We need more Johns in the world. And as far as the threequel, you know as much as I do! I don’t know a lot about it yet but fingers crossed Regan continues her journey! I would love to work with everyone again.
Q: Tell me about how instrumental it was for your life and development that your mom made sure you learned ASL from a young age.
A: Sign language has impacted my life in every way. First and foremost a deaf child needs a primary language. They need to be able to communicate — and American Sign Language gives them the ability to communicate. ASL is the only guarantee a parent has to communicate with their deaf child.
Had my mother solely relied on cochlear implants and not learned sign language, I can’t imagine how frustrating that would have been for both of us. There is no risk to learning sign language. However, you are risking family relationships if you don’t. Who wants to risk that?
Q: Tell me about how this Mother’s Day campaign honors her and contributes to helping young deaf children.
A: Seeing ASL in public is important and helps it become an accepted and celebrated language. I designed the Millie ASL Mama Charm to inspire parents with deaf kids and encourage them to learn ASL. One hundred percent of profits go to SKI-HI Deaf Mentors, a nonprofit that teaches hearing families with deaf children ASL.
Q: What’s your best short pitch on why your ASL charm makes such a great Mother’s Day gift?
A: “Mom” was the word I first signed. I would not have the opportunities or career I have without knowing ASL — and that’s a decision my mom made when I was an infant. That’s why I chose the sign “MOM” for the Cut+Clarity Millie ASL Mama pendant.
Seeing ASL in public is important and helps it become an accepted and
celebrated language. I hope the Millie ASL Mama charm inspires parents with deaf kids and encourages them to learn the language. It’s a beautiful language.
Q: Real quick: You were recently cast to play disability rights activist Helen Keller in the movie “Helen & Teacher,” right? How cool is it that?
A: Taking on the role of Helen Keller is a huge responsibility. She is not just a character on a page or in a movie. I have always been inspired by her story. We are taking our time and
really want to get it right. Seeing more people like Helen Keller on screen is as important as seeing them work behind the scenes.
I’m also currently executive producing and starring in a TV series adapted from a book called “True Biz” by deaf author Sara Novic. It is now a New York Times bestseller! We are really excited. It will be the first series led by two deaf women!