WCPO: 'CODA' wins big at Oscars, boosts visibility of Deaf and ASL communities

When the best picture Oscar went to “CODA” on Sunday, March 27, at the 94th annual Academy Awards it was celebrated worldwide, and by UC faculty, students and staff in the ASL and Deaf Studies program. The film was about a girl named Ruby, as a CODA (child of deaf adults) and the only hearing person in her home. When she discovers a passion for singing, Ruby must choose between family obligations and her dreams.

"Last night, that was our moment, that was our time to say 'OK, things don't stop from here,” UC’s program Arrianna Bedgood, told WCPO through an interpreter because she is deaf.

The film’s star Troy Kotsur also made history when Kotsur become the first deaf man to win an Oscar for acting, taking home the statue for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. In an emotional acceptance speech, he dedicated the award "to the Deaf community, the CODA community and the disabled community.

"The only next step is to keep going," said Bedgood.

Watch the WCPO interview

Featured image at top of ASL instructor Arriana Bedgood teaching during the pandemic. Photo/Colleen Kelley/UC Creative + Brand.