Lighthouse employees Robert Studebaker, Shawn Dobbs, and Paula Hoffman and a few others checking in to a meeting with an elected official.

Lighthouse employees Robert Studebaker, Shawn Dobbs, and Paula Hoffman and a few others checking in to a meeting with an elected official.

Each year National Industries for the Blind (NIB) hosts a Public Policy Forum for all of its associated agencies. The forum provides NIB agencies with the chance to build relationships with elected officials and advocate on various aspects of legislation. This year’s forum took place on May 24th and 25th in Crystal City, Virginia. Five employees and staff from The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. attended the public policy forum.

While the forum consisted of training for employees in NIB’s Advocates for Leadership and Employment program and a review of important policy issues, the highlight of the event was going to Capitol Hill to meet with elected officials. Overall, Lighthouse staff made 18 visits to members of Congress, providing our elected officials with a general update of things going on at the Lighthouse along with discussing important policy issues regarding NIB and its associated agencies.

In spite of an extremely busy schedule, a few folks from the Lighthouse were able to take time and tour the Capitol. Walking through the Capitol and learning about the history, art, and architecture was both fascinating and inspiring. There was a tactile map of all of the various buildings in and around the Capitol. For someone who is blind, this map provided great context of the size, design, and layout of the various buildings of the Federal Government.

The most exciting aspect of the tour though, was having the opportunity to sit in the gallery while members of the House of Representatives debated policies surrounding the Zika virus. It was truly a thrill to be a spectator and watch our government in action.

While the Lighthouse’s Government Relations team is involved in advocacy efforts year-round, it is always an honor each year to travel to our nation’s Capital and advocate for opportunities for jobs, independence, and empowerment for people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities.