National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota

09/02/2025

Many of us who have been blind for a long time can still remember what it was like when we had no idea how a blind person could walk around a lake independently or do any number of things we do without being able to see. We're thankful to have met people who showed us by the example of their lived experience that blindness need not hold us back. Every day, people struggle with the idea that blindness means hopelessness, wondering how they could hold a job, or cook, or raise children, with little or no sight. We're doing our 44th Annual Walk for Opportunity Fund-Raiser on September 6 so that we can keep our movement going into the future, sharing the positive message of our lived experience--replacing misconceptions that artificially limit people's lives with truth that raises expectations and opens opportunity. Your contribution at www.nfbmn.org will make a big difference. Thank you to all our supporters.

08/21/2025

September 6 will be our 44th annual Walk for Opportunity! This year it's a 5K--around Lake of the Isles and a little more. If you know someone who's participating, please make a contribution to our walk in their name. Your help makes it possible for us to award scholarships to blind students, advocate successfully for legislation like our recent victory on parents' rights, hold summer programs to enhance the education of blind children, connect blind seniors with resources, and more. Donate at www.nfbmn.org. Thanks so much to all of our friends and supporters who help make our work possible.

06/16/2025

Statement on this Weekend's Deplorable Violence

The National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota mourns the tragic loss of State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark. As a gifted, dedicated public servant, Representative Hortman was an early supporter of our efforts to ensure that materials in higher education be made available in accessible formats. In her role as Speaker of the House, Representative Hortman effectively helped to usher important legislation toward passage thet benefited blind Minnesotans. Her leadership helped make real progress in the fight for equality and opportunity for people with disabilities. Her legacy will live on in the laws she helped shape and the lives she touched.

We also extend our heartfelt wishes for a full and swift recovery to Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette. He, too, has served as a vocal supporter of the blind community. Senator Hoffman most recently partnered with us to sponsor vital legislation protecting the rights of disabled parents in Minnesota. We are keeping them and their family in our thoughts during this difficult time.

We condemn violence and intimidation in all forms and believe they have no place in our society…especially in matters of political discourse. Acts of violence undermine the values of democracy, respect, and inclusion that underpin our mission.

We stand in solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy and reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive, respectful community.

Sincerely,
Corbb O'Connor, President
on behalf of the National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota
Phone: 612-872-9363

09/09/2024