National Federation of the Blind Convention Ally Network

Please complete the below form to request support from the Convention Ally Network or to volunteer as an ally during the 2024 National Convention of the National Federation of the Blind. The goal of this network is to help to facilitate participation in the convention and to ensure support for someone who is fearful of harassment or discrimination.

The National Federation of the Blind is committed to fostering inclusion and providing opportunity for members, prospective members, friends, supporters, and anyone interested in our community to attend our National Convention. Prominent civil rights organizations representing marginalized groups, including racial minorities, immigrants, and the LGBTQ+ community, issued travel advisories in 2023 for the state of Florida because of recently enacted laws and policies that affect these groups and, consequently, affect our members as well. While we could not move the 2024 National Convention, we are organizing the Convention Ally Network to aid people who plan to attend convention and who would like to request support. Please note this network does not include financial assistance.

An ally is a person who is informed and understanding of diverse, marginalized identities; affirms their experience and rights; and chooses to challenge discrimination. This network will include:

Training and virtual planning meetings prior to convention for allies and community members.
Coordination between allies and community members during the week of National Convention (July 3 to July 8) that may include accompaniment from the airport to the convention venue and back to the airport. Specific activities will be determined upon review of needs and requests.
This network is not intended to replace the communications and connections attendees should have with leaders, affiliates, divisions, and groups regarding the national convention.

Upon completing the below form, you will be contacted by the program coordinator.

First Name *

Last Name *

So that we may refer to you appropriately, please share your pronouns: - Optional

Email Address *

Cell Phone Number *

Please select which option best fits: *

From which airport do you plan to travel? *

Traveling to Orlando in the: *

Traveling from Orlando in the: *

I hereby affirm that I am an ally of all minority individuals and that I agree to abide by the National Federation of the Blind’s Code of Conduct when engaging with this program and all Federation-related activities. I understand that someone with whom I travel may be LGBTQ+, a person of color, or have another minority characteristic. I agree to maintain strict confidentiality and use discretion in all communications. I also agree to attend all relevant trainings and to call or email the program coordinator with any questions. *

Optional: Please select this checkbox if you are interested in being part of a National Federation of the Blind public directory of LGBTQ+ people and our allies that will be used to promote inclusivity in our community. This is not a required part of the Convention Ally Network.