[NABS-L] Marching Together

[Trisha Kulkarni, National Student President]

Dear Students, 

 

It is difficult to write a collective statement on a topic that is so
personal and individualistic. This message is not at all meant to silence
our experiences.

 

First, thank you so much to our members for your bravery and heart in
bringing light to issues that must be addressed both in the greater NFB and
also in NABS. It has been heartbreaking to see the scope of sexual
misconduct testimonies in our organization, and new conversations have
definitely been sparked in our leadership and with members about how we can
do better. Please know that we stand with you, we believe you, we do not shy
away from you, and we have zero tolerance for sexual misconduct across our
work, whether at in-person events, committee meetings, membership calls, or
on social media.

 

However, as a student survivor discussed with us yesterday, we need to go
beyond standing and take steps forward. What has been so challenging to
read, and I am certain even more devastating to experience, is the fact that
a wealth of stories share an identity in common, being a student. In that
sense, it seems even more important to ensure that our members and leaders
have a seat at the table as we push for change, rather than creating another
divide. 

 

In all honesty, we are still working to determine our next steps, but we
know for certain that it starts with listening. We want to create spaces for
students to share their experiences and ideas. Currently, we are planning an
open forum, but if you have thoughts you want to share, don't hesitate to
reach out. Know that we care and want to hear from you, regardless of what's
on your mind. 

 

In Solidarity, 

Trisha Kulkarni

President | National Association of Blind Students

A Proud Division of the National Federation of the Blind

nabs.president at gmail.com <mailto:nabs.president at gmail.com> 

www.nabslink.org <http://www.nabslink.org>