June 2025

Letter from the President

Dear Friends,

Shattering preconceived ideas of blind people is central to the mission of the National Federation of the Blind. We know that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. So many of our programs are aimed at shattering misconceptions and low expectations about blindness—misconceptions and low expectations that are held not only by the general public but by blind people ourselves. 

One of our most powerful tools in challenging assumptions is demonstrating success through real examples. We actively work with educators and employers to show them that blind people are capable students and professionals when given proper training and opportunity. We help teachers understand that blind children can learn Braille and develop strong literacy skills from an early age. We've seen countless times how this transforms their expectations of what blind students can achieve.

But perhaps most importantly, we build confidence within the blind community itself. Society constantly reinforces messages that being blind means being less capable. But the Federation challenges those assumptions. When blind people internalize high expectations and develop strong skills, they naturally challenge assumptions through their daily interactions. Every successful blind professional, student, or parent becomes living proof that contradicts the low expectations society often holds.

I know that I did not have a full understanding of what I could achieve or what my life could be like before I met Federation members in Wisconsin in the 1990s. The Federation caught me at a crucial moment when I might have given up on my future altogether. Instead, they built me up, taught me valuable skills, and most importantly, helped me develop a healthy attitude about blindness. This awakening led me to become deeply involved in the organization--first as a member, then joining the staff in 2003, and ultimately being elected as President in 2014. I now travel the world, lead a large organization, and am a proud father, friend, and spouse. 

For many like me, attendance at their first convention has become a life-changing experience. A blind person may hear for the very first time that it is respectable to be blind, that carrying a cane is useful and is nothing to be ashamed of, that Braille is a valuable tool after all, and that much progress is being made in adaptive technology. Attendees also learn that they are not alone, and that an active and fulfilling life is possible and within their reach. I hope that all of you feel the love, power, and the unity of purpose that convention brings to blind people and their families by joining us in New Orleans next month.

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

Shatter Preconceived Ideas

In the National Federation of the Blind, we awaken understandings, shatter preconceived ideas, and raise expectations. From the extraordinary, like sponsoring Erik Weihenmayer’s climb to the peak of Mount Everest, or breaking speed records for the fastest blind-folded driver, to the every-day victories like helping someone receive their first white cane or reconnect with the world through reading a newspaper, our work shatters preconceptions and empowers blind people to not let blindness get in the way of our dreams. 
Our members express the impact of our community best:

“I truly did not know that blind people could travel independently and to new places without being instructed by a certified travel teacher, or without at least going with a sighted person. Seeing my friends doing this without really seeming to even think about it absolutely blew my mind as an 18-year-old.” – Karen

“I realized that being blind wasn't something to be ashamed of. Using my cane in public wasn't weird.” – Julie

Whether at chapter meetings, seminars, conventions, or in everyday conversations, we create opportunities for blind people to find confidence, community, and independence. Experience the movement by becoming active in one of our fifty-two state affiliates and learn more about our philosophy by visiting our speeches and reports page.

Latest News at the NFB

Partnership to Advance Digital Accessibility for Blind and Low-Vision Communities

The NFB recently established a formal partnership with Innosearch AI, an innovative AI-powered accessibility and shopping platform. This groundbreaking collaboration aims to transform the digital experience for blind and low-vision users by combining Innosearch’s cutting-edge technology with the NFB’s deep expertise in advocacy and community empowerment. Together, Innosearch AI and the NFB are committed to building a more accessible internet—where shopping, travel, and digital services are designed with everyone in mind. Learn more about the Innosearch partnership and how Federationists can access an exclusive welcome offer in our press room. 

Celebrating Outstanding Blind Students

The National Federation of the Blind recently announced the finalists for its annual scholarship program which provides financial assistance and connects students with blind mentors and other resources. Learn more about the thirty scholarship finalists in our press room. 

Independence Market Now Available for Online Orders

The Independence Market is now online, making it easier than ever to find and order reliable blindness-related tools and resources you need. The market is an extensive store that offers hundreds of products and literature created by and for the blind community. Shop online now at catalog.nfb.org and learn more about the NFB Independence Market. 

Take Action This Month

Important Dates

Throughout our local chapters and national divisions, we certainly are a busy organization. Here are some deadlines, webinar, and conference dates to keep in mind.