It’s common knowledge that the National Federation of the Blind has always been a trail-blazing organization. We’ve made history multiple times over the last seventy-five years and 2016 is no exception. This August, the NFB is proud to host the joint general assembly of the World Blind Union (WBU) and the International Council for Education of People with Visual Impairment (ICEVI) in Orlando, Florida. Beginning on August 18 and running through August 25, this event will bring together representatives from more than one hundred eighty countries. Though the precursor to the WBU, the International Federation of the Blind, was founded in Phoenix, Arizona, this will be the first time that the general assembly will be held on American soil in the organization’s history.

We’re gearing up for a week of engaging presentations, interactive discussions, captivating speeches and an exhibit hall full of the latest and greatest in assistive technology and other products.

The highlight of the week will be a special cultural night featuring the best of Americana. Attendees will get the opportunity to enjoy classic American music, food, and America’s favorite pastime—baseball! If you’re state-side, join the NFB in giving our International visitors a glimpse of the United States. If you’re a visitor from another country, please come and experience a taste of life in the USA. To register, click on the following link: www.wbu-icevi2016.org. Please note that registration for the WBU/ICEVI General Assembly is only available online. Registration will close on May 31, 2016.

If you’re interested in becoming an exhibitor during the assembly, the website can give you more information. You can also follow the hashtag #JointGA2016 to keep up with the events of the joint general assembly.