[NFBNJ] NFB President’s Notebook - Week of 04/08/2024

[Linda Melendez]

President’s NotebookNational Federation of the BlindMark A. Riccobono
officeofthepresident at nfb.org410-659-9314



Dear Federation Family,



Now that the fever of the eclipse has passed, we can settle into the normal
business of April. Let me take a moment to thank those of you who have
personally reached out to me during the past week regarding the unexpected
passing of my father. The support from each of you means more than I could
ever convey in words. The depth of the Federation family never surprises
but it does always humble me. I am honored to be part of this community
with you.


Critical Actions:*April Presidential Release:*

The April Presidential Release chapter version
<https://nfb.org/resources/publications-and-media/presidential-releases> is
available for chapter meetings. Please note the podcast format is now
updated. The next live presidential release is scheduled for Wednesday, May
1, 2024, at 8:00 p.m., eastern. Zoom TBD.


News:*Need Your Help with the Museum:*

The Museum Campaign is still looking to expand its list of prospects and
potential contributors. As you review your contacts, please identify anyone
you think would be interested in hearing more about the museum project, or
who has the capability to pledge $10,000 or more. Affiliate presidents can
expect an initial or follow-up call from Rachel Held to discuss your
suggestions in the coming weeks. If you have any questions or suggestions,
please contact Rachel at 410-659-9314, extension 2423, or rheld at nfb.org.



*2024-2025 NFB Teachers of Tomorrow Cohort—Applications Now Open:*
Teachers of Tomorrow is an immersive professional development program that
connects teachers of blind and low-vision students to the lived experiences
of blind people. The program will equip the participants with knowledge of
the skills and attitudes that can help blind students thrive in school and
beyond. Please encourage teachers of blind students in your affiliate to
apply for this opportunity, and help circulate the application information
to any university programs that prepare teachers of blind students where
you have contacts. For more information visit
https://nfb.org/programs-services/education/teachers-tomorrow. The
application period will end on May 3, 2024.


*Where the Blind Work Webinar:*

Thursday, April 18, 2024, 8:00-9:00 p.m., eastern, via Zoom

The National Federation of the Blind champions cultural and economic equity
in society. We firmly uphold the belief that blind people possess the
inherent ability to pursue our career aspirations. Join us for an
enlightening discussion featuring an impressive panel of blind
entrepreneurs who constantly trailblaze the path to professional success.
Our panelists are:

·         Shelby Ball, BEP Owner and Operator, Georgia

·         J.J. Meddaugh, Owner and Operator of AT Guys, Michigan

·         William Ruffin, BEP Owner and Operator, Maryland



Register at Where the Blind Work Webinar
<https://nfb.org/programs-services/employment/where-the-blind-work-webinars-registration>
.
 *Discriminatory Driver’s License Requirements in Job Applications:*

Many employers illegally require driver’s licenses in job applications when
driving is not an essential function of the job. To combat this, the Equal
Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) needs as many charges of
discrimination as possible before they can file suit on behalf of blind
people. Federal law requires that we file a charge of discrimination with
the EEOC before any further action can be taken. If you have been
discriminated against in this manner, please contact the EEOC. To start the
process, you can schedule your intake interview with the EEOC at
https://publicportal.eeoc.gov/Scheduling/login. Please contact our legal
program coordinator, Sanho Steele-Louchart, with any questions. Sanho can
be reached at legal at nfb.org and at 410-659-9314, extension 2440.


*Letter Regarding Accessible Vote-by-Mail Sent to 253 Texas Counties:*

On July 27, 2023, the United States District Court for the Western District
of Texas San Antonio Division held that Bexar County violated Title II of
the ADA by providing only a paper absentee ballot that was inaccessible to
blind people. This case was brought by the National Federation of the Blind
of Texas, the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities, and three blind
voters. The Court ordered Bexar County to provide a remote, accessible,
vote-by-mail system that would grant blind voters the same opportunity
provided to voters without disabilities. On March 29, 2024, the National
Federation of the Blind sent a letter to the other 253 counties in Texas
<https://nfb.org/programs-services/advocacy/policy-statements/letter-sent-253-texas-counties-regarding-remote>
reminding
them of their legal obligation to provide blind voters an accessible way to
privately and independently mark an absentee ballot. The letter can be read
on the Policy Statements page
<https://nfb.org/programs-services/advocacy/policy-statements> of our
website.


Dates to Keep in Mind:

(all times eastern)

   - April 15: Deadline for Bolotin Award
   <https://nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/dr-jacob-bolotin-awards/application-information>
    nominations
   - May 1: Deadline for Distinguished Educator of Blind Children Award
   <https://nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/distinguished-educator-blind-students-award>
    nominations
   - July 3-8: National Convention; Orlando, Florida

 Introduction to the Organized Blind Movement

   - Wednesday, May 8, 8:00 p.m.
   - Wednesday, August 7, 8:00 p.m.
   - Wednesday, November 6, 8:00 p.m.
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