News from NFB

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This is the official account for press releases, statements, news briefs, and similar content from the National Federation of the Blind. We will also occasionally post news articles from other sources about our programs, initiatives, affiliates, and members.
The latest issue of the Braille Monitor, the flagship magazine of the National Federation of the Blind, is now available on our website. Read about our latest advocacy, some articles by and about blind moms, an update on the latest AI tools that are useful to blind people, and much more. BRAILLE MONITOR Vol 68 No 5 May 2025 https://nfb.org//images/nfb/publications/bm/bm25/bm2505/bm2505tc.htm
Join us for our Diabetes Action Network “Knowledge is Sweet” Seminar on May 16 and 17 at our Jernigan Institute in Baltimore. This seminar will empower blind diabetics with the information and perspective to take control of their medical health while fostering connections between consumers, medical practitioners, health professionals, and technology developers.

Register today to attend in-person or virtually. Virtual attendants will only be able to stream the event: https://buff.ly/D3faWJU
Tune into our latest episode of the Nation’s Blind Podcast where our hosts are joined by President Riccobono. They discuss our stance on recent proposals to restructure or eliminate government agencies and programs that serve the blind community, such as the Department of Education, and Social Security Administration. They also emphasize our commitment to being partisan for blind people and advocating for policies that directly benefit the blind: https://buff.ly/P7vlyzc

Every year, the Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award recognizes an outstanding teacher of blind students. The education of blind children is one of our highest priorities. Please help us recognize dedicated and innovative teachers who provide quality education and meaningful experiences and opportunities for their blind students.

Apply by May 1: https://buff.ly/rSAZ1mG

Alt text: Images of two past winners holding their award: Scott McCallum and Jackie Anderson.

"We, as individuals with disabilities, can only succeed when we work together. When we work together, we change the world," said Nicholas Hoekstra who works with international organizations to provide accessible books for blind people around the world.

"I encourage each of you to remember that we are a global community, and—even while we fight to improve the conditions of people with disabilities in the United States—we must never stop lending a hand to our international family."

The Blind Educator of the Year Award pays tribute to a blind teacher whose exceptional classroom performance, notable community service, and uncommon commitment to the NFB merit national recognition. The recipient must exhibit guidance, advocacy, and love and must advance the cause of blind people in the spirit and philosophy of the NFB.

Submit your nomination by May 1: https://buff.ly/aK5OsAe

Alt text: Images of two past winners of the Blind Educator of the Year Award holding their inscribed plaque: Michelle Chacon and Dr. J. Webster Smith.

This week is International Guide Dog Day, a time when we celebrate the work of guide dogs around the world & raise awareness of the importance of guide dog services for blind people. Our National Association of Guide Dog Users division is committed to enhancing the lives of guide dog users, addressing common challenges, & expanding opportunities for those who rely on guide dogs for independent travel.

What is something that you wish the general public knew about your guide dog? Comment below.

In honor of Audio Description Awareness Day, here is an article from the April braille monitor about a blind leaders experience of audio description. The Power of Audio Description https://nfb.org//images/nfb/publications/bm/bm25/bm2504/bm250407.htm
Disability Advocates Sue Social Security Administration and DOGE to Stop Unlawful Cuts to Social Security Services | National Federation of the Blind https://nfb.org/about-us/press-room/disability-advocates-sue-social-security-administration-and-doge-stop-unlawful