Have you ever felt like there's no way one person can make a difference when it comes to influencing a member of Congress? That's how I used to feel before I became part of the collective voice of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB)last year at the annual Washington Seminar. Now I'm no longer overwhelmed and intimidated at the prospect of writing, calling, or meeting with my congressional representatives.

One of our local chapter Meet the Blind Month activities was for two of us to meet with Congresswoman Susan Davis. We talked with her about H.R. 188, the Transitioning to Integrated and Meaningful Employment (TIME) Act. Beforehand I did my homework; that is, I learned a little about some of the organizations who oppose fair wages for persons with disabilities. During the meeting we dismantled a couple of counterarguments, and then we asked her to cosponsor the bill. Imagine our excitement when she agreed to sign on! Before we left her office, the congresswoman said something simple, yet profound: “I have so many bills to look at. I want to know why my constituents want me to sign on to a bill. I also want to be asked."

Although Meet the Blind Month is coming to a close, it is never too late to request meetings with your members of Congress. Yes, your voice will make a difference. You can influence your congressional representatives. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Ask an experienced NFB member to show you the ropes.
• When learning to write a letter to your representative, try reading some examples first.
• Call the local office of your member of Congress and request a face-to-face meeting. You may want to role play before making the call for practice.
• Ask your mentor to accompany you and help you communicate your message during the meeting.
• Prepare for the meeting. Do your homework and study the issues. You can read articles about the TIME Act and other legislative initiatives on the NFB website.

I am confident in your ability to become a part of the NFB’s collective voice. Now is the TIME for you and your chapter members to “change what it means to be blind!”