This will be a bit of a long post, so I apologise for that. I have been totally blind since I was two months old and am now forty-two. I didn't grow up around blind people. I made my first blind friend when I was sixteen, thanks to a vocational counselor. Only in my late twenties did I begin making blind friends online. I never agreed with the attitude and philosophy of the NFB (National Federation of the Blind). They always seemed too preachy to me, and too unrealistic. They believe that the blind shouldn't ask for help or be given modifications in many instances, and they can be confrontational at times. They also treat everyone the same, which doesn't work with a group of people who have different needs, life experiences, etc. Plus, I heard that some chapters can be quite religious, and I'm an atheist. From what I heard of the ACB (American Council of the Blind), they are much more relaxed. They have no problems asking for help when needed, and are willing to work with other groups and organisations. They understand that all blind people are not the same, and they treat their members accordingly, not pushing them to do one thing or another, or to follow this or that belief. At least, that's how these two groups seem to me, particularly from the short interactions I've had with the NFB over the years. This doesn't make the NFB bad. It's just not for me. Please, if I'm wrong in my explanations, do correct me. It is not my intent to spread misinformation. These are things I've heard and experienced over the years, but I have never been a member of either group.
Having said all of that, I am very interested in joining the ACB. I am not an activist or advocate, but I do hope to make some friends. I also heard that there are many seniors there, so maybe, I can even find a partner! They have two chapters in New Jersey, but none is near me, so I will probably join the NJCB as a member at large, which will also make me a member of the ACB. I joined several of their lists, but the ACB-L one seems no longer to exist, and I never received the generic welcome e-mail from the ACB Conversations list. Maybe, they have to review my request or some such. The others are fine, though. This is just for e-mail. I will join officially next month. I am actually excited about the New Jersey convention next month. My parents are willing to take me, so we can all enjoy it! Are any of you ACB members? I would love to hear your stories.
Reflecting on the 2026 ACB D.C. Leadership Conference
PCB Peers return to Pennsylvania with renewed purpose after a meaningful week of learning, collaboration, and advocacy.
Thank you to the American Council of the Blind for hosting a powerful conference, and to our PCB Peers who shared their time, energy, and voices on Capitol Hill.
We are proud to continue advancing accessibility, independence, and opportunity across Pennsylvania. 💙
Day 5 — Final Day of the 2026 ACB D.C. Leadership Conference! 🇺🇸
Today PCB Peers head to Capitol Hill to meet with Members of Congress.
After days of preparation, today is about advancing legislative priorities that promote independence and improve quality of life for people who are blind or have low vision.
Advocacy in action. Pennsylvania showing up.
Attending? Drop a 🇵🇦
Cheering from home? Send encouragement! 💙
Day 4 of the 2026 ACB D.C. Leadership Conference!
Today PCB Peers are focused on advocacy preparation and momentum.
📚 Legislative Seminar
⏰ 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET
A full day focused on legislative priorities that promote independence for people who are blind or have low vision.
🧠 Trivia Night Social
⏰ 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM ET
Sharpening our message & preparing for conversations on Capitol Hill.
Attending? Cheering from home? Send encouragement! 💙
Day 3 of the 2026 ACB D.C. Leadership Conference.
Today, PCB Peers are participating in the Presidents’ Meeting — a full day of leadership discussion and collaboration — followed by an evening Dine Around in Pentagon City.
These moments of connection and strategy strengthen the national advocacy movement for people who are blind or have low vision.
We’re proud to see Pennsylvania represented.
#ACB #Accessibility #Leadership #Pennsylvania #BlindCommunity #PCB
Day 2 of the 2026 ACB D.C. Leadership Conference.
PCB Peers are participating in a full day Board Meeting, supporting new advocates through the First Timers Club, and building connections during the evening Welcome Reception.
Today is about strengthening leadership and preparing for legislative advocacy in the days ahead.
We’re proud to see Pennsylvania represented.
#ACB #Accessibility #Leadership #Pennsylvania #BlindCommunity
Japan Pop News
Walk News
Georgiana Brummell
PA Council of the Blind
À Punt
Darrell Hilliker 👨🦯♾️📡