Thursday, July 8, 2027 - Sunday, July 11, 2027
The Hands Up Conference invites you into a powerful next chapter:
Rooted – Rising from Deaf Roots.
Rooted – Rising from Deaf Roots
The Hands Up Conference invites you into a powerful next chapter: Rooted – Rising from Deaf Roots.
As we look ahead to 2027, we center a truth that defines our existence — ASL professions exists because of Deaf people. American Sign Language, Deaf culture, and Deaf community are not products of the profession; they are its origin.
This theme is a call to return to that foundation.
After years of growth, collaboration, and transformation, we are pausing to ask: What are we grounded in?
Rooted – Rising from Deaf Roots challenges interpreters and ASL professionals to reconnect with Deaf history, Deaf leadership, and Deaf lived experience. It calls us to move away from outdated mindsets and re-center our work in the community that makes this profession possible.
When we are grounded in the right foundation, we don’t move backward—we rise stronger, more ethical, and more aligned.
Secure Your Spot for 2027
Tickets for the 2027 Hands Up Conference are now available. Note: Hotel prices have not been negotiated at this time. Catch your Early Bird price now to save on registration and check back in to secure your hotel room at The Florida Hotel and Conference Center.
Plan ahead, invest in your growth, and be part of a conference experience that is grounded, intentional, and community-centered.
A Journey of Growth
The Hands Up Conference has always been more than a single event—it is a movement shaped over time. Each year builds upon the last, creating a powerful progression of reflection, connection, and growth.
2024 – Continuing the Legacy
In 2024, we honored the history, pioneers, and foundations of the ASL profession and Deaf culture. We recognized that everything we do today is built on the work and vision of those who came before us.
We extend our gratitude to Mike and Maureen Tuccelli for starting this journey to better our community together in one place at The World’s Largest Silent Weekend, launched on June 19th, 1980.
2025 – Better Together
In 2025, we celebrated the power of community, connection, and collaboration. Like bees working together in a hive, interpreters, ASL professionals, and the Deaf community thrive when we support one another. This year reminded us that shared purpose and teamwork strengthen our profession.
2026 – Waves of Change
In 2026, we ride the Waves of Change.
Building on the foundation of legacy and community, the ASL profession is experiencing shifts, challenges, and transformation. These waves can be powerful, disruptive, and even uncomfortable—but they are necessary.
They push us to reflect, adapt, and rethink how we show up for the Deaf community. By leaning into change, we prepare ourselves for deeper growth and a stronger, more intentional future.
Looking Ahead
Each year has led us here.
From honoring the past, to strengthening our community, to embracing change—2027 is where we return to our roots.
This is more than a theme. It is a reset. A realignment. A recommitment.
Join us as we rise—grounded in Deaf culture, language, and community.