The Guild’s documentary “We Need to Talk” follows a day in the life of Eyad, Bekah, Tiny, Kaitlyn, and Kensington. Each of these five unique individuals use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) in addition to some spoken language to express themselves, get their needs met, and connect with others.
The film follows these five individuals as they use communication devices at school, work, hobbies, and in their communities. Through these stories, we see that language exists on a spectrum that is unique to each person yet rooted in the same fundamental truth that communication is a basic human right.
Learn more about their unique personalities and interests.
Meet Eyad
Eyad is a student at The Guild School who likes snacks, playing on the playground, and feeling different textures. He has some spoken language and uses a speech-generating device to support his communication.
Meet Bekah
Bekah is a recent graduate from The Guild School who loves using her Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device to have conversations with others. She likes vanilla ice cream, socializing, and making jokes.
Meet Tiny
Tiny graduated from The Guild School and is now living at home with her mom. Her hobbies include watching movies (especially Disney), listening to music, and going to Newbury Comics and GameStop. Tiny is an advocate for communication supports and feels her Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device gives her independence.
Meet Kensington
Kensington is an adult resident at The Guild who uses both spoken language and an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device to communicate with the people in her life. Her favorite things are flowers, cake, cookies, ice cream, and her family.
Meet Kaitlyn
Kaitlyn is an adult resident at The Guild who goes horseback riding almost every week. She also likes listening to music and going swimming. Kaitlyn uses a speech-generating device, along with gestures and body language, to express her wants, needs, and ideas.
Premiere events
The Guild held a red-carpet premiere of the documentary in February. Eyad, Tiny, Kensington, and Kaitlyn walked the red carpet and celebrated the film with the support of their community. Friends, family members, staff, and other residents came out to celebrate everyone involved and reflect on the importance of communication.
On April 2, The Guild will host an online webinar and panel discussion in order to amplify the message of the film. The conversation will include insights from family, clinical, and medical response perspectives. Together, the panelists will explore personal AAC stories, common barriers and solutions to inclusive community environments, and discussion for improving communication accessibility in healthcare, education, and business.
Our panel brings together a diverse group of voices with firsthand experience in communication access and AAC. They offer valuable perspectives in understanding what AAC is, accessing communication supports, advocating for inclusive practices, and combining personal and professional use of AAC.