November 2025

Dear Friend,

The eighty-fifth anniversary of the founding of the National Federation of the Blind is on November 16, and it is an opportunity to celebrate how far we have come. In 1940 the architects of the Federation did not have the great foundation of collective action, wisdom, and experience overcoming challenges that we have today.

But they had high expectations of what could be possible for blind people. As I reflect on our history, the progress that we have made is a source of strength even as I contemplate how much more work we have to do to go beyond their expectations.

Dr. Kenneth Jernigan, our esteemed President from 1968 to 1986, often articulated that part of predicting the future is being part of directing what that future looks like, and that's what we do in the National Federation of the Blind. We don't just assume that the future is predetermined. Our progress in advancing the lives of blind people is not guaranteed, but we have determined for ourselves that we're going to be part of it.

Especially during the Thanksgiving season, I feel grateful to the people who built the organized blind movement eighty-five years ago and how fortunate we are to have the Federation family as it stands today.

We are strong, accomplished, and move forward together because so many of you contribute your time, money, and energy toward building a better future. Thank you for being a part of the movement and continuing the fight for complete freedom and equality for the blind.

Sincerely,
Mark A Riccobono, President
National Federation of the Blind

State Conventions: Coming Together to Exceed Expectations

The National Federation of the Blind is built on the belief that community is not something that simply happens—it is something we create together. Across the country, blind people and our allies come together to share innovative ideas, learn new skills, develop mentorship relationships, and celebrate progress.

Our state conventions are one of the clearest expressions of this community in action. They are more than gatherings; they are places where shared experience becomes collective strength and where people quickly feel that they are part of something larger, purposeful, and welcoming. 

State conventions also provide a place to challenge assumptions about blindness—those we have encountered from others and sometimes those we have internalized ourselves. The result is the Blind People’s Movement. Participants share:

“Our state conventions raise expectations, build a strong community, and teach newly blind people that their blindness does not have to be the characteristic that defines them or their future.” – Norma

“Michelle came to us searching for a cure and after a state convention and a national convention, she is spending her time looking for new members and living the life she wants. - Denise

Whether you are newly adjusting to blindness, a family member, a long-time advocate, or someone who simply believes in equality and inclusion, you are welcome. To connect and learn more, contact your state affiliate president.

Latest News at the NFB

StellarTrek Giveaway Winner Announced, Matching Gift and Movement Campaign Continue Through December

Leaders from the NFB National Organization of Parents of Blind Children and our partners at HumanWare recently did a live demonstration of the StellarTrek navigation device and drew the winner of the giveaway from the group of people who contributed during the week of White Cane Awareness Day. Watch the demo and learn about the movement campaign on Facebook.  

The matching gift opportunity from HumanWare and the NFB’s Coast-to-Coast Movement Challenge is in full swing. This month, in addition to contributions being doubled, everyone who gives to NFB will be entered into a drawing for a pair of Ray-Ban Meta glasses from HumanWare. You can still make contributions in support NFB members of the Bay Bridge Run team, and cheer on our team of runners gearing up for the California International Marathon on December 7. 

National Federation of the Blind Denounces Devastating Job Cuts Within the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services

The National Federation of the Blind responded with strong opposition to reports that most federal employees within the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) received Reduction in Force notices that are scheduled to take effect on December 9, 2025. 

If not reversed, this action will severely undermine the Department of Education’s ability to carry out its legal responsibilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Randolph-Sheppard Act. These laws ensure that blind children receive Braille and other essential educational services, that blind adults receive the training necessary for competitive employment, and that blind entrepreneurs have opportunities to operate businesses on federal properties.

Learn more in our Press Room.

Bookshare and National Federation of the Blind Announce Exclusive Membership Offer

Bookshare recently announced an exclusive membership offer for National Federation of the Blind members. First-time members can join Bookshare for 30% off an annual membership. Existing Bookshare members can renew for 20% off their annual membership. Bookshare is FREE for National Federation of the Blind US students.

Bookshare® is the world’s largest collection of accessible ebooks. The organization empowers people who cannot read traditional books to pursue education, employment, and social participation by making reading and learning materials accessible. Learn about how to sign up at https://www.bookshare.org/nfb. 

Take Action This Month

There are many ways to get involved and learn more about the Federation. Here are a few things you can do to engage with our movement. 

Important Dates

We certainly are a busy organization. Don’t miss these upcoming events, seminars, and conferences taking place across the country and virtually.