The Perkins School for the Blind was founded in Massachusetts starting as the beginning of education for blind people in the U.S.
This event was crucial because it challenged the idea that blind people couldn’t get education. It provided a lot of opportunities for them to develop skills and be independent.
Dr. Samuel Gridley Howe started making books with raised letters as an effort to make literature for blind individuals.
This paved the way for reading systems like Braille.
Braille, who was not blind himself didn't live long enough to see the writing system he created become widely accepted. He suffered from tuberculosis and died in Paris in 1852.
https://www.perkins.org/brailles-most-famous-book/
Introduction of Braille in the U.S.
Although Louis Braille developed his tactile system in 1829, it wasn't officially introduced to the United States until 1860, when a member of the Missouri School for the Blind's board of directors brought it to the school
The development of Braille literacy programs allowed blind individuals to communicate and access education more effectively.
Randolph-Sheppard Act
This law gave blind people priority to operate vending stands in federal buildings giving them job opportunities.
It was a major step in employment rights for blind people giving them economic independence and recognizing their ability to work.
Formation of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB)
The NFB was established as a leading advocacy group for blind individuals focusing on equal rights and fighting discrimination.
Rehabilitation Act
This was the first federal civil rights law protecting people with disabilities and blindness from discrimination in federally funded programs.
This paved the way for future disability rights laws making sure blind individuals had access to education and employment opportunities.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The ADA required businesses, public spaces, and employers to provide accommodations for people with disabilities also those who are blind.
This law improved accessibility making sure blind individuals could get through public spaces and workplaces without discrimination.
Currency Redesign for Accessibility
The U.S. government began adding tactile features and different sized numerals to paper currency to help blind individuals distinguish bills.
21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act
Required modern technology, including smartphones and TV programming, to be accessible for blind individuals with features like screen readers and audio descriptions.
This act recognized the importance of technology in daily life and ensured blind individuals weren’t left behind in the digital age.
U.S. Department of Justice Reinforces Web Accessibility
he DOJ clarified that websites and mobile apps must be accessible under the ADA making sure blind individuals could use digital platforms with screen readers.
This was an important move in making sure they have equal access to online services, education, and employment.
