MOVIE REVIEW
Deaf Santa Claus
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 49m
Director(s): Ben Shelton, Anthony Mowl
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 Austin Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: From the heart of Texas., Charles Graves, known as the deaf Santa Claus, delivers gifts and a message of inclusivity. This Santa, fluent in American Sign Language (ASL), does more than fill the traditional role; he ensures that every child, regardless of hearing ability, feels the joy and wonder of the holiday season. His heart somehow transcends the conventional jolly Saint Nick by addressing a profound need for representation and understanding in the deaf community.

Graves has dedicated more than two decades to empowering deaf children at the Texas School for the Deaf, where his journey to becoming Santa Claus began. Recognizing a gap in representation for deaf children—who rarely see figures like themselves in such roles—Graves took up the mantle of Santa Claus, determined to make a difference. His Santa is not just a seasonal character but a year-round symbol of hope and inclusivity, delivering moments of joy that resonate deeply with those who share his experiences.

In 2022, Graves achieved the distinction of "Real Bearded Santa Claus" from the International University of Santa Claus. This title qualifies him to expand his influence beyond local events to a national stage. As a bona fide member of the Lonestar Santas, his performances combine warmth with rigorous standards of safety and authenticity, ensuring that his portrayal resonates well beyond the deaf community to touch the hearts of all attendees.

The expansion of his role took on new significance as he ventured to Washington, D.C., a city with one of the largest deaf populations in the nation. Here, the impact of his presence was palpable, especially during a memorable encounter with young Cleo at the Gaylord National Resort. Witnessing Graves communicate in ASL, Cleo's initial reserve gave way to a profound sense of connection and joy, illustrating the transformative power of seeing oneself reflected in cultural icons.

Charles' influence extends far beyond the holiday season. He actively addresses the significant issue of underemployment within the deaf community, where only 55% of individuals find employment compared to 71% of their hearing peers. Through his role, Graves advocates for more excellent career opportunities for deaf individuals, challenging prevailing stereotypes and demonstrating that proficiency extends beyond auditory capabilities.

The broader impact of Graves' work is recognized and cherished by the children and families he meets and the wider community, which sees him as a pioneer for inclusivity. Graves and his interpreter, Anthony Mowl, call for actionable change—visibility and real opportunities for underrepresented groups.

As Graves continues to don his suit and spread his message, he is committed to redefining the narrative around inclusivity and representation, ensuring that every child can experience the magic of Christmas. He hopes his actions inspire other Santas to embrace diversity, making the holiday season a genuinely inclusive celebration.

Through his unique story in DEAF SANTA CLAUS, Charles Graves weaves a legacy of joy, acceptance, and inclusivity, proving that the spirit of Christmas knows no bounds. His work serves as a crucial reminder that inclusivity must permeate every aspect of society, making every interaction and every tradition an opportunity to celebrate our shared humanity.

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