🚀 go-pugleaf

Index Number: 26363

[This is from the Blink Talk Conference]

Residential schools were created for a purpose, but isolating the blind
from the sighted during their formative years leads to much ignorance on
the part of the sighted as to their capabilities, be that academic,
social or vocational skills.  As a result, those in an employment
capacity never think to seek the blind for a job, not realizing that the
blind, overall have a much better attendance and punctuality record than
the sighted.  And with the adaptive equipment available today, meeting
the job requirements is not out of reach anymore for many occupations.
I spent time while working for IBM as a volunteer job recruiter for the
blind, which was most interesting.  But I am appalled when somebody
sighted, in their mid forties says the blind cannot work, for they
cannot see.  We have a long way to go with public education, but
ignorance will always be there to some degree.  I brailled my business
cards, which everybody saved and often pinned in their workplace,
because it created an awareness that most would otherwise never be
exposed to, and generated many opportunities for positive communications
about the blind.  No longer working, this avenue of awareness is halted
for a while.  But we must never give up on your rights for equality and
individuality.  Closing off for now to do schoolwork for night school,
for the last assignment is due tomorrow and the final test a week
thereafter.  Take care.  TTYL
Bill

... My hard disk is full! Maybe I'll try this message section thing.

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