Grand Opening of the first clubhouse.
The exact origins of our Deaf club's logo remain shrouded in mystery. Unfortunately, records detailing the designer or the specific process through which it was selected as our official symbol are absent. Nevertheless, the club's roots are firmly planted in Flint, Michigan.
The logo's striking visual element, a representation of flint, carries significant symbolic weight. Renowned for its exceptional hardness and durability, flint is a powerful metaphor for resilience and strength. Across diverse cultures, flint has been associated with attributes such as endurance, toughness, and the ability to withstand challenges. This symbolic resonance aligns perfectly with the spirit and values of our Deaf community.
History behind our logo
President - Yuliette Parks
Treasurer #2 - Andrea Riedel
The Flint Association of the Deaf (FAD) and its Ladies Auxiliary marked a significant turning point at the end of 2024 by transitioning to the FAD Active Membership model. This groundbreaking change granted equal status to both men and women within the organization, fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment for all members. The FAD embraced a more modern and egalitarian approach to governance and membership by eliminating gender-based distinctions.
The 2025 election further solidified this new era of equality and representation. Four women were elected to key leadership positions for the first time in the Flint Association of the Deaf’s history. Yuliette Parks assumed the role of President, Brandy Gilreath became Secretary, Andrea Riedel was elected Treasurer, and Hannah Wears joined the Board of Directors. This historic achievement not only shattered traditional gender barriers but also paved the way for a more diverse and dynamic future for the FAD. These accomplished women bring a wealth of experience, diverse perspectives, and a commitment to serving the Deaf community. Their leadership will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Deaf individuals and promote greater visibility and empowerment within the organization.
The first meeting was held on February 19, 1919 at Eli M. Bristol’s home on 623 East Street in Flint. The February 19th meeting was to organize a club with officers and by-laws. About 27 Deaf people came to that meeting. George Ashley was elected president of the club. Other officers were Eli Morris Bristol as secretary-treasurer; Andrew Gilbert, Philip Schreiber, and Llewellyn Williams as trustees. These five men are remembered as charter members of FAD.
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February 19, 1919
A meeting of the Deaf men of Flint was held at the house of E.M. Bristol, 623 E. Third Street, with a view of organizing a club and looking up a suitable location for it. About 25 interested in the movement were present. E.M. Bristol acted as chairman.
Moved that we proceed to elect temporary officers to get the ball rolling. Election resulted as following:
President: Geo. T. Ashley
Secretary-treasurer: E.M. Bristol
Board of Trustees
L.F. Williams,
Andrew Gilbert,
P.L. Schreiber.
Adjourned object to a call by the president.
E.M. Bristol
M - Morris
First Meeting
Secretary - Brandy Gilreath
Directors - Hannah Wears