Starting July, you can text 9-8-8, the new three-digit suicide hotline number! However, there is no direct sign language video capabilities yet, but YOU can help change this! Contact the FCC by Link , FCC.GOV/ECFS/FILINGS (Docket 18-336), or calling the ASL hotline at 844-432-2275!

[VIDEO DESC & TRANSCRIPT: Zainab is seated. The NAD logo is on the bottom right corner.
ZAINAB: Great news! Soon, you’ll be able to text 9-8-8!

Clip of Zainab signing with text on screen, “SUICIDE HOTLINE FOR THE DEAF & HARD OF HEARING COMMUNITY | ZAINAB ALKEBSI, NAD POLICY COUNSEL”.

ZAINAB: What is 9-8-8? There is a general national hotline support line for people who are thinking about suicide. It has ten digit number that is hard to memorize.
Black background with white text “800-273-8255” pops up.
ZAINAB: In 2020, the FCC approved changing the ten digit number to three digits, 9-8-8.
Red “9-8-8" pops up on the top left corner.
ZAINAB: It is similar to 9-1-1, easy to memorize. We asked the FCC to provide text message and video with sign language capabilities with 9-8-8, but the FCC declined. They said that the new 9-8-8 number does not require text or video capabilities. WHAT!? This is a big lack of access in our community. The NAD became concerned with their refusal. We asked the FCC to reconsider, we did this with many other groups' support. PAH! Recently, the FCC decided that they will be moving forward with texting to 9-8-8! This three digit will be kicking off in July, and the texting capabilities will be launching at the same time. We must continue to emphasis to the FCC not to ignore the direct sign language video capabilities. YOU CAN HELP! How? You can contact the FCC, encourage them to reconsider approving direct sign language video chat for 9-8-8. Access now!
Clip fades out to blue background with white text, “CONTACT THE FCC”. “DRO@FCC.GOV”. “FCC.GOV/ECFS/FILINGS (Docket 18-336)“. “ASL HOTLINE: 844-432-2275”.]