This powerful digital artwork, "Holding Back the Tide: EMG and Clerc Confront LRE", is an AI-generated illustration by me depicting a burdened Edward Miner Gallaudet grimacing as he strains against a coffin door labeled "LRE" within the hallowed walls of Gallaudet's Chapel Hall. Minted as a unique NFT, this piece explores the historical and philosophical tensions surrounding Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) in Deaf education through a contemporary lens. Created with careful consideration for the Deaf ecosystem, this artwork acknowledges the ongoing dialogue within the community, including the perspectives of Deaf artists like Dan McClintock and NFT experts like Brandon Hill. It navigates the complex landscape of AI-generated art and copyright, aiming for originality in its depiction while remaining sensitive to the nuances of Deaf culture and language. This NFT serves as a critical reflection on LRE's potential impact on specialized Deaf schools and Gallaudet University, inviting conversation about fostering thriving Deaf spaces in an evolving educational landscape. #RaymondMerritt #GallaudetUniversity #LRE #LeastRestrictiveEnvironment #DeafEducation #NFT #AIArt #CopyrightConsiderations #DeafEcosystem #DanMcClintock #BrandonHill #DigitalArt #GallaudetNFT