Born: 1972 (St. Mary, Jamaica)
Biography:
Claudia L. Gordon is a trailblazer and advocate for the rights of deaf individuals in the United States. Born in St. Mary, Jamaica in March 1972, Gordon’s life took a significant turn when she suddenly lost her sense of hearing at the age of eight. This life-altering event thrust her into a world of challenges and discrimination, but also ignited a fierce determination to overcome barriers and fight for equality.
Raised by her elder sister, Mildred Taylor, a teacher, Gordon’s family sought medical and spiritual help to restore her hearing, but to no avail. As a result, she was forced to leave primary school for nearly two years as her educational environment could not accommodate her needs as a deaf student. Despite these setbacks, Gordon’s family eventually immigrated to the United States, where she reunited with her mother in the South Bronx, New York.
In New York, Gordon’s journey to becoming a fierce advocate for deaf rights began. At the age of eleven, she enrolled at the Lexington School and Center for the Deaf, where she learned sign language and became immersed in a community that understood and supported her. Gordon’s talents shone brightly during her time at Lexington, as she became the valedictorian of her junior and senior high school graduating classes. She was also actively involved in sports, student organizations, and community activities.
One of Gordon’s notable achievements during her high school years was her participation in a mock trial sponsored by the American Bar Association. As a member of the only deaf mock trial team in New York, she helped her team become the first deaf high school to ever win the competition. It was during these formative years that Gordon’s aspiration to become a lawyer took root, fueled by the discrimination she experienced in Jamaica. Undeterred by naysayers who doubted her ability to pursue a law degree due to her deafness, Gordon remained steadfast in her determination to make a difference and contribute to a better society.
Continuing on her path to breaking barriers, Gordon pursued higher education at American University’s law school, becoming the first deaf graduate of the institution. After obtaining her law degree, she embarked on a remarkable career in public service, focusing on disability rights and advocacy. From 2002 to 2017, she held various roles in the public sector, leaving an indelible mark on the advancement of disability issues in the United States.
Gordon’s most notable position was as the associate director in the White House Office of Public Engagement during former President Barack Obama’s administration. This groundbreaking appointment made her the first deaf person to work at the White House in a detailee capacity, where she advised White House offices and senior officials on disability issues. Her influence extended beyond the White House, as she played a pivotal role in shaping policies and promoting inclusivity on a national level.
Currently, Claudia L. Gordon works as a Senior Accessibility Strategy Partner at T-Mobile, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her vast experience in both the public and private sectors has made her an invaluable advocate for accessibility and equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Throughout her life, Claudia L. Gordon has exemplified resilience, determination, and a tireless commitment to fighting for the rights of deaf individuals. Her unwavering dedication to creating a more inclusive society has paved the way for future generations and solidified her status as a pioneer in the field of disability advocacy.