9 am – 5 pm, Sandman Inn, 2852 Douglas Street

— Learn how blind Canadians are organizing and moving beyond thetraditional view of blindness to empowerment and equality

Victoria, BC–The Canadian Federation of the Blind (CFB) convention provides an excellent opportunity for blind and partially blind people to get together, learn from each other, and encourage one another to succeed.

“We get refreshed at the convention, and motivated to go back into the community and live our lives with purpose,” said Mary Ellen Gabias, President and co-founder of the CFB. “The convention also gives sighted people a chance to learn about the diversity, independence and potential of people who are blind.”

This year at the convention, blind people will discuss employment, post-secondary education, inclusive design, human rights, blindness independence training,and strategies for reducing the high unemployment rate–nearly 80 percent–of blind Canadians.

The CFB is excited to welcome new members from Ontario who will be starting anew division of the CFB and helping to expand the cause of the organized blind.

The CFB convention will be held Saturday, May 5 from 9 am to 5 pm at the Sandman Inn, 2852 Douglas Street, in Victoria BC. Convention registration is $55 and includes lunch.

The CFB ishosting a fun trivia night at Norway House, 1110 Hillside Avenue on the preceding Friday evening May 4, 2018,6:30pm to 9:30pm. Admission to the trivia night is $25 per person, and will be collected at the door. All proceeds from this event will go to support the CFB and its important work.

The CFB wishes to acknowledge sponsors of the convention: the Kelowna Knights of Columbus and the Victoria Imperial Lions Club.

The Canadian Federation of the Blind is a grassroots organization of blind people committed to the equality and empowerment of blind Canadians. Through advocacy, public education and mentoring, members work for change, promote a positive perspective on blindness, and together gain confidence and skills.

For more information, to attend the trivia night, or to register for the convention, please contact the President, Mary Ellen Gabias, at 250-681-2495, or call us toll-free at 1-800-619-8789. Please also visit our website at www.cfb.ca