RIT/NTID Diversity Spotlight
[ID: RIT National Technical Institute for the Deaf. Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Black Heritage Month Spotlight. Pictured in a green circle is Donald M. Falls, a Black man with a mustache and goatee in a black shirt, with a black background, with lighting coming from the left side of the image. Quoted below him is “The purpose of BHM is to learn, live and improve with the power and knowledge that Black experiences can serve. – Donald M. Falls ’12. Arts and Imaging Studies AOS. Commercial Photographer, Cinematographer, Motivational Speaker, and Dancer.” Black History Month colors, red, yellow, black and green are found on the photo's bottom border.]
Donald Falls ‘12
(He/Him/His)
Commercial Photographer, Cinematographer, Motivation Speaker & Dancer
RIT/NTID Arts and Imaging Studies AOS
Donald graduated with an AOS degree in Arts and Imaging Studies with a concentration in graphics.
What is your nationality/how do you identify?
Born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas. I am Black American.
What or who has been your biggest cultural influence?
Michael Jackson, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Denzel Washington and so many others.
What does Black History/Heritage Month mean to you?
It is a celebration to give all praises to the accomplishments of all Black leaders, as well as learn about Black history and Black cultures that continue to make a difference; delivering the world the opportunity to learn that black culture matters. People of color offered so much to this world and today, we continue to do the work that Black leaders left off. The purpose is to learn, live and improve with the power and knowledge that black experiences can serve.
What advice would you give to those who are just joining your major as they look to advance their skillsets?
First, to find and know why you are doing this. Then proceed to take the opportunity to practice gratitude, network, professionalism, study often and keep it positive mentally and physically. Learn to overcome your fear in anything that comes toward you! Remember you have the power to win and succeed.
What is your favorite cultural dish?
Growing up, my family mostly ate soul food, seafood and Chinese food. Currently, I eat keto-friendly and plant-based food.
From your lens, how can the larger community better support POC, like yourself?
Never believe in stereotypes. Provide awareness for the community and help different audiences learn that people of color do matter. Understand how hard it is to be a deaf black person. It is solely not well-mentioned. Deaf black individuals need more support, both mentally and emotionally.
Share a quote that you live by.
“Knowledge is Power” & “Never Give Up!”
Do you have any resources to share for someone like yourself or for someone who would like to learn more about your culture?
I would say look into some black culture and African American documentaries on streaming platforms such as Colin in Black & White, Selma, Malcom X and many more.
Pick up some modern novels and magazines such as EBONY, ESSENCE, JET and BLACK ENTERPRISE. Learn about our culture that way.
Share a cool, random fact about yourself.
I was born with hearing loss, but never grew up in the deaf community but I am happy to be a part of it now.