Helen Keller Day 2024: Why it is Celebrated and Know Her Chronology of Life

On June 27th, every year, we celebrate Helen Keller Day. This is a day dedicated to honouring the extraordinary life and achievements of Helen Keller, who was an inspirational figure who defied limitations and became a beacon of hope for countless individuals.

Helen Keller's legacy extends far beyond her academic achievements. She emerged as a powerful advocate for the deaf and blind communities. She worked tirelessly to improve their lives. She campaigned for social justice and disability rights, becoming a prominent figure in the early 20th century. Her writings and speeches resonated with audiences worldwide, inspiring them with her courage and optimism.

Remembering an author, lecturer & crusader for the handicapped #HelenKeller on her birth anniversary. She became the first blind-deaf person to effectively communicate with the sighted and hearing world. Helen is known the world over as a symbol of courage in the face of… pic.twitter.com/dIJpFrIWiz

— Dayanand Kamble (@dayakamPR) June 27, 2024

Why is Helen Keller Day Celebrated?

Helen Keller was born on June 27, 1880. She lost her sight and hearing at a very young age due to illness. Despite this, with the help of her dedicated teacher, Anne Sullivan, Helen learned to communicate through sign language and Braille, achieving the seemingly impossible.  Her perseverance and intellectual curiosity led her to become the first deafblind person to graduate from college in the United States.

Helen Keller Day is more than just a birthday celebration. It's a day to reflect on her incredible accomplishments:

• Breaking Barriers: Helen's story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
• Advocacy for the Disabled: She became a powerful voice for those with disabilities, fighting for their rights and education.
• Inspiration for All: Her life serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that with determination and the right support, anything is possible.

What was the Chronology of Helen Keller’s Life?

Here's a glimpse into the remarkable life of Helen Keller:

Early Life (1880-1887):

• 1880: Helen Adams Keller is born healthy in Tuscumbia, Alabama.
• 1882: An illness leaves Helen deaf and blind at 19 months old.
• 1887: Frustrated and isolated, Helen's parents seek help. Alexander Graham Bell recommends the Perkins Institute for the Blind, which sends a young teacher, Anne Sullivan.

Education and Breakthrough (1887-1904):

• 1888: Helen starts attending the Perkins Institute for the Blind.
• 1894: Helen and Anne move to New York for further education at Wright-Humason School for the Deaf.
• 1900: After attending various schools, Helen gains admission to Radcliffe College, a milestone for deafblind education.

Authorship and Advocacy (1903-1945):

• 1903: Helen publishes her autobiography, "The Story of My Life," a worldwide success.
• 1904: Helen becomes the first deafblind person to graduate college, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Radcliffe.
• 1905: Helen begins a lifelong career as a writer and public speaker, advocating for the rights of people with disabilities.
• 1919: This year brings a whirlwind for Helen Keller! Not only does she star in the moving picture "Deliverance," a testament to her remarkable journey, but fate introduces her to the comedic genius, Charlie Chaplin
• 1919-1924: Helen embarks on the journey to raise awareness. She travels across the United States giving lectures and tours, sharing her story and inspiring audiences everywhere.  This spreads her fame even further, solidifying her place as a remarkable woman on the world stage.
• 1924: The year marks a pivotal year for Helen Keller as she embarks on a lifelong mission: as Counsellor on National and International Relations for the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB).  Through her tireless advocacy and captivating presence, Helen elevates AFB's profile across the nation.
• 1925: A remarkable year for Helen Keller!  She delivered a powerful address at the Lions International Convention.  Her stirring words challenged them to become "knights for the blind in the battle against darkness."  The impact was profound, inspiring the Lions to establish numerous programs focused on saving sight and creating eye banks. 
• 1927: Helen Keller's insightful exploration of faith finds its voice in print.  Her book, "My Religion," is published, offering a glimpse into her personal beliefs.
• 1929: Helen Keller publishes her autobiography, Midstream: My Later Life, at the age of 49. She also embarks on her first journey to Europe, a remarkable feat for a woman who has overcome so much.
• 1932: Great news in 1932! Braille was accepted as the standard alphabet for blind people all over the world. This wonderful achievement is due in large part to Helen's powerful voice. She tirelessly advocated for a single system, so the blind everywhere could have the key to literacy and knowledge.

Later Life and Legacy (1946-1968):

• 1946: Helen Keller, champion of the handicapped, embarks on a remarkable world tour spanning 1946 to 1957. Across five continents and 35 countries, her inspiring presence sparks a movement.
• 1952: Helen Keller receives a prestigious honour! The National Institute of Social Sciences recognises her remarkable life and contributions by awarding her the Gold Medal. This medal is a yearly tribute bestowed upon a deserving individual who has made a significant difference in the lives of others.
• 1953: Helen Keller embarks on a tour of India, where she meets with Prime Minister Nehru.
• 1954: Back in the United States, another milestone is reached as her birthplace, Ivy Green in Tuscumbia, Alabama, is recognised by being placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• 1955: This year marks a triumphant year for Helen Keller!  She receives an Oscar, the coveted golden statuette, for the documentary film "Helen Keller In Her Story." 
• 1955: She shatters another barrier, becoming the very first woman to receive an honorary doctorate degree from the prestigious Harvard University. 
• 1961: A stroke forces Helen to retire from public life.
• 1964: Helen receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a prestigious honour.
• June 1st, 1968: Helen Keller passes away peacefully at her home in Connecticut.

Helen Keller’s story continues to inspire generations to break barriers, advocate for equality, and embrace the power of education.

READ| Helen Keller Day 2024: 30+ Quotes by Helen Keller About Education, Life, Love and Success