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ALTHEA PITTMAN, EDITOR MAURER LAW FIRM, P.A.
SUITE 100 COURT SQUARE BLDG. 200 EAST LEXINGTON STREET
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 21202
DECEMBER 1982
VOLUMN VI, NUMBER 2
THE BRAILLE SPECTATOR
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND, INC.
Althea Pittman, Editor The Braille Spectator Maurer Law Firm, P.A.
Suite 100 Court Square Building ORGANIZATIONAL OFFICERS:
James Omvig, President
364 Marydell Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21229
Marc Maurer, First Vice Pres.
Althea Pittman, Second
President
Marc Maurer, Secretary
Al Maneki, Treasurer
9736 Basket Ring Road
Columbia, Maryland 21045
200 East Lexington Street Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Reader (Cassette Version):
Connie McCraw
The BRAILLE SPECTATOR is published quarterly as a newsletter to member of the NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND and
others who share an interest in the work of this organization. The recorded edition, available on cassettes, can be obtained from the editor upon request.
Changes of address and additions to the circulation list should be sent to the editor. Address all news items, articles and letters to the editor.
THANKSGIVING AND SEASON'S GREETINGS by Jim Omvig
At the time of this writing, Thanksgiving is close upon us. It seems to me that those of us in the Federation are particularly blessed and have a great deal for which to be thankful. We have a vital and vibrant organization, marvelous readers, a philosophy which works, a cause worth fighting, good friends and colleagues in the movement and, yes, we have love--a love for one another which is greater than all of the rest. Yes, we of Federation can give thanks with gladness and joy.
And, before most of us see one another again, Christmas and New Year's will have come and gone. On behalf of Sharon and me, and from the entire State Board, I wish to extend the warmest of season's greetings to you. May this holiday season be the best you have ever had and may the coming year be rich and rewarding. The future is bright with promise for us all.
FROM THE PRESIDENT'S MAIL BASKET
(A Letter to a Congressman)
One of the most important bills concerning-blind persons to have been introduced in the U.S. Congress in recent years is HR 6529, the Jobs and Business Opportunities for the Handicapped Act of 1982. Congressman Mitchell was one of the early co-sponsors in the House. He later withdrew. It was reported that powerful forces in the sheltered shop field had influenced his decision to withdraw.
I wrote the following letter with hope and expectation that we could change Congressman Mitchell's mind again.
James Omvig, President
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
364 Marydell Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21229
The Honorable Parren J. Mitchell United States House of Representatives Washington, D.C.
Dear Congressman Mitchell:
Enclosed please find a copy of Resolution 82-01 concerning the Jobs and Business Opportunities for the Handicapped Act of 1982. It was passed unanimously at the recent state convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland.
Frankly, I feel somewhat disappointed in having to write you at all concerning this resolution. It is my understanding that
you were a co-sponsor of HR 6529 almost from the outset of the introduction of this important piece of legislation. We had assumed that we would have your support and that it would have been helpful as we discussed the bill with others.
However, I have recently learned that, following considerable pressure from the "establishment" in work with the blind and by other "professionals," you have withdrawn your support. As you would suspect, the blind of Maryland are disappointed since we have always regarded you as a friend and as one who has a deep understanding of issues faced by minority groups.
Surely it was not surprising to you that members of the "establishment" in the entire sheltered workshop system came out vigorously in opposition to this bill. They could not and would not have done otherwise.
Let me present you with a rather fanciful analogy to make the point. Let us assume that, many years ago, social do-gooders had established "sheltered workshops for the blacks" on the theory that "they cannot compete in regular employment." Let us further· assume that, in order to "help" those poor unfortunates, the federal government established a program to purchase "black made products." Finally, let us assume that a private organization, National Industries for the Blacks; took over the responsibility of doling out the federal contracts to the shops.
Since blacks are not inferior to whites and can be just as productive when given the opportunity and training, it would not be -long before blacks would come to resent the system of sheltered shops for the blacks. They would also come to resent the "shopkeepers" who continued to live and think in the past and who continued to hold the blacks down and out. The blacks would begin to take such action as they could to reform the shop system and to improve their social and economic condition and they would be resented for taking such action.
National Industries for the Blacks would probably take the lead in trying to keep blacks down and out since it would have the greatest vested interest of all in maintaining the status quo--it would receive all of its financing from its share of the contract work done by the blacks who were held in bondage.
To maintain the status quo and to keep the money rolling in, National Industries for the Blacks would soon oppose every positive recommendation and action taken by those "aggressive and militant blacks" who were seeking freedom and opportunity. However, since these blacks could see freedom, and opportunity ahead, they would not bow to the pressures but would continue to dream of the day when they could live as first-class citizens. And they would recognize that their cause was just--they found themselves working in the shops not because of any inability due to the condition of blackness, but because of social attitudes, prejudice and hostility.
At some point the black workers, and their representatives, would recognize that the only way in which they could make real improvements would be to change the shop system itself, to secure the passage of laws and to bring about more revenues from federal contracts by eliminating National Industries for the Blacks altogether and reforming the contracting system.
If all of this had occurred, and if you had been a co- sponsor of the bill which would eliminate National Industries for the Blacks, surely you would not be surprised that National Industries for the Blacks and the professionals in the sheltered shops for the blacks would have contacted you to try to get you to change your mind and withdraw from the bill. As I said above, what else could they do? They have their vested interest to protect and they are concerned about that vested interest, not the blacks who work and sweat in the shops.
I recognize that this is a lengthy method of demonstrating the problem. However, it is as clear a statement as I can make.
I urge you as strongly as I can to reconsider the action which you have taken. The professionals in the field are naturally concerned about their vested interests and will do what they can to convince you and others that their only concern is to "help the handicapped." On the other hand, our only concern is to make sure that blind and handicapped persons who find themselves limited to sheltered shop employment have a real chance for dignity, self-respect and an adequate income. After considering the matter, I am convinced that you will come down on the side of dignity and self-respect for your brothers and sisters and that you will not be diverted from what is right by those who wish forever to hold the blind in bondage.
By this letter I wish formally to request that I and a group of leaders of the blind from Maryland have the opportunity to meet with you to discuss this situation. Please contact me as soon as possible to arrange a time mutually convenient to you and our group.
Very truly yours,
James H. Omvig, President
National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland
JHO/sko
cc: Dr. Kenneth Jernigan, President, National Federation of the
Blind
Mr. James Gashel, Director, Governmental Affairs, National Federation of the Blind
Board Members, National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
I have now received a response from Mr. Mitchell which states that, with certain amendments he will gladly return as a co-sponsor.
STATE CONVENTION HELD by James Omvig
A large, enthusiastic and hard working crowd was on hand for the 16th Annual State Convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland which was held over the weekend of August 27 through 29, 1982, at the Howard Johnsons Motor Lodge in Balti more. It was a pleasure to renew old acquaintances and to make new ones, but even more, it was gratifying to have the opportunity to participate in the work and to share in the planning of the future of the organized blind movement in this state.
Registration began promptly at 6:00 p.m. on Friday evening, and the delegates were lined up and anxious. Right up front, our thanks and appreciation go to Betty Desimone and her team for handling registration so competently and efficiently and with such cool heads.
The real work of the Convention began at 8:00 p.m. when Pres dent Thompson called the Board Meeting to order. Many delegates also joined the Board to participate in this meeting.
Most stayed for the Resolutions Committee Meeting which convened at 9:00 p.m. It has become traditional for
Federationists (whether they are on the Resolutions Committee or not) to help shape the policies of the organization.
The formal business session met at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday morning and what an opening it was. Although Baltimore's Mayor Schaefer was unable to attend, he sent a representative to make a presentation. The Mayor had decided to proclaim October, 1982, as National Federation of the Blind Month in Baltimore City. The full text of the Proclamation is as follows:
PROCLAMATION
BY
Mayor William Donald Schaefer
Designating October, 1982
AS
"National Federation of the Blind Month" in Baltimore
WHEREAS, the 50,000 member National Federation of the Blind has long been and is committed to the development of self- sufficiency, pride and opportunity for blind Americans; and WHEREAS, the members of the National Federation of the Blind, headquartered in Baltimore, offer services such as mobility training, vocational counseling, public education about blindness, encouragement for the newly blinded and advice regarding new techniques available to the blind; and
WHEREAS, the Baltimore Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind will hold a Move-a-thon (walk and race combined) at the Inner Harbor on October 3rd, 1982, which will provide the citizens of Baltimore with an opportunity to learn about blindness, the National Federation of the Blind and the National Center for the Blind.
Now, THEREFORE, I WILLIAM DONALD SCHAEFER, MAYOR OF THE CITY
OF BALTIMORE, do hereby proclaim October, 1982 as "THE NATIONAL
FEDERATION OF THE BLIND MONTH" IN BALTIMORE and commend the National Federation of the Blind for its comprehensive efforts on behalf of blind persons, their families and friends throughout the country.
(seal of Baltimore) In WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the City of Baltimore to be affixed this twenty-eighth day of August, in the year of Our Lord, one thousand nine hundred and eighty-two.
William Donald Schaefer
Mayor
The first item of business following the presentation of the Proclamation served only to heighten the spirit and enthusiasm. Our National President, Dr. Kenneth Jernigan, presented us with a report from the National Office and brought us up to date with the significant progress which is being made throughout the nation. The quality of life is improving for the blind of America, and the vehicle for change is the National Federation of the Blind.
Next followed a discussion of the fact that BUZZERS AND BEEPERS BUG THE BLIND OF BALTIMORE (for details see a separate article in this issue of the SPECTATOR).
What can be more important to blind persons than good jobs? The morning session ended with an excellent presentation on the Federation's Job Opportunities for the Blind, and a panel of successfully employed blind persons. A blind wine steward? You bet!!
During the noon recess there were luncheon meetings of two special interest groups: The Blind Vendors Chapter and the Blind Students Division.
The afternoon session was devoted to two major items: the future of services for the blind in Maryland and meeting the candidates of the upcoming elections.
The blind of Maryland working through the Federation have become increasingly alarmed at the poor quality of services for adults who become blind in this state. We have become even more alarmed since most state officials seem totally unconcerned or, if they are concerned, apparently lack the courage to take swift and decisive action to bring about improvement.
During the 1982 legislative session a bill was introduced to improve services for the blind. The Senate Finance Committee has referred it to a "study committee" for review and recommendation. One member of the "study committee", Senator Louise Murphy, appeared at the convention to give a progress report. She was
. candid enough to point out that since this is an election year, committee members have been busy campaigning and have taken no action to date. There were also presentations by Mr. Richard Badderton, Assistant State Superintendent of the State Vocational
Rehabilitation Department of Hum an Services, and Mr. Ralph
Sanders, President, Blind Industries and Services of Maryland. Later in the afternoon candidates for office showed up in good. numbers. Most notable were Gubernatorial Candidates Pascal and McGuirk, and our own member, Marc Maurer, who was running for a delegate ·seat.
As usual, the banquet was the highlight of the convention.
Our National President, Dr. Kenneth Jernigan, presented the John McGraw Award to Willie J. Thompson for his dedication, commitment and sacrifice on behalf of Maryland and the nation. The Barbara Johnson Award was presented by Ron Metenyi to Goldie Thomas, and Don Morris was a masterful Master of Ceremonies. The banquet address was given by Jim Omvig. He discussed the importance of the Federation's work to improve the lives of blind individuals. He challenged the members to action by asking, "If we don't care about those persons who go blind today or tomorrow, or if we don't care about those blind children who are not yet born, then, who will? If we do not come together in concerted action to improve life for all blind persons, then, who will? No one will do it, and it is not reasonable to expect that someone should! It is our responsibility!"
Sunday morning was taken up largely with internal business. Numerous resolutions were adopted (printed elsewhere in this issue), the constitution was amended to require that all state Board Members be elected, and it was decided that there will be a state associates contest again for the coming year.
The following officers and board members were elected: President, James H. Omvig; First Vice President, Marc Maurer;
Second Vice, President Althea Pittman; Secretary, David Robinson;
Treasurer, Dr. Alfred Maneki. Board Members: Brenda Williams; Gearl Conrad; Ted McKean; and Willie J. Thompson. Held over members are Knowles Hovington and Al Saile.
The following individuals have accepted appointments to head up the various state-wide committees: Membership, Althea Pittman; Legislative, Marc Maurer; Fundraising, Don Morris; Public Relations, Dave Robinson; PAC and Associates, Debbie Robinson; National Convention Transportation Al Saile; Committee on Standards and Accreditation, Willard Freeman; Awards and Scholarships, Dr. Al Maneki; Door Prizes, Brenda Williams and Committee on Affiliate Education, Pat Maurer. Althea Pittman has agreed to serve as Editor of the Spectator.
The convention was highly successful. Now, we must all put the new knowledge and renewed spirit to work on a daily basis so that the Federation's goal of equality and first-class citizenship for all blind persons can be realized.
OF CHALLENGE AND PROGRESS:
MRS. WALHOF DIRECTS THE IDAHO PROGRAM by Marc Maurer
Earlier this fall Ramona Walhof, the Assistant Director of the Job Opportunities for the Blind Program, became the Director of all programming for the blind in Idaho. Mrs. Walhof who came to the National Center for the Blind shortly after it was established in 1978 was one of the people who helped build the Job Opportunities for the Blind Program. In the past three years this has become one of the best known and most productive programs of service to the blind in America.
Mrs. Walhof will be greatly missed in Maryland. The l0ss for the blind of Maryland is the gain for the blind 0f the nati0n and the blind of Idaho. Mrs. Walhof was one 0f the most hard working, staunchest, most imaginative, and most well liked leaders of our Baltimore Chapter. She ran the Baltimore Walk-a- thon since its beginning, and she has been a central figure in gaining recognition for the National Center for the Blind and the National Federation of the Blind with state and local officials.
We congratulate the blind of the State of Idaho and wish Mrs. Walhof best wishes and godspeed in her new care0r. We know she will be as successful in Idaho as she was here in Maryland. Her spirit, her willingness to give, her unfailing cheerfulness, and absolute commitment to the blind are the stuff which makes the National Federation of the Blind the unstoppable organization it is. Mrs. Walhof will be a long distance from us, but she will remain close to us in our hearts and she will be standing with us on the barricades. Wherever she may go, she will remain with us and be of us. Congratulations Mrs. Walhof! May your future be bright, for you have brought us joy.
DISCRIMINATION AGAINST THE BLIND IN HANDICAPPED PROGRAMS by David Robinson
Discrimination against the blind occurs in many ways. Blind people are prevented from being lab technicians. Hotels won't rent second story rooms to blind people because their insurance rates might go up. Blind people may not be employed in the Foreign Service because the medical requirements cannot be met. The list goes on and on. But surely, in programs that deal specifically with handicapped people, discrimination does not occur. Surely the people who operate programs that specialize in service to the handicapped know better. Surely the experts have enough knowledge so that blind people do not face the traditional stereotypes and the age-old barriers and limitations that have kept blind people down and out over the centuries. Surely it is reasonable to expect the administrators of programs for the handicapped to be aware and to prevent discrimination. So thought Fred Stout, a blind man who applied for a job as Assistant Director of Programs for the Handicapped for Montgomery County. Fred Stout was wrong. The program for the l1andicapped in Montgomery County discriminates against blind people as much or more than the uninformed employer or the uneducated college dean.
This is how it happened. Fred Stout applied for the assistant directorship of programming for the handicapped in Montgomery County. This program is designed to insure that handicapped people participate in all of the activities of Montgomery County on an equal basis.
Nevertheless, Montgomery County officials thought that Fred Stout was not sufficiently qualified to take the test. Despite the ten years of experience in the field of rehabilitation which Fred has, and despite his masters degree in rehabilitation and the many hours of work toward a doctorate in the same field, Fred was thought not to have sufficient technical qualifications for the job. Montgomery County refused to accept his application. He wasn't even permitted to take the Civil Service Examination to determine his ranking among those who were qualified. Montgomery County simply told him that he could not cut it and that he would not be considered for the job.
A hearing was held before the Civil Rights Commission of Montgomery County. In that meeting staff members of the Personnel Office for Montgomery County said that Fred's application had been received. In addition, they said that his technical education and qualifications were adequate, even superior to those held by other applicants. They agreed that he would have been treated differently if he had been a sighted applicant. Nonetheless, they maintained that the person who was hired (a young deaf woman who had recently graduated from college) was better qualified than Fred. They made the astounding statement that there could be no discrimination here because they had hired a handicapped applicant. Montgomery County is taking the position that to deny the best qualified individual the job on the basis of blindness is reasonable if the county hires a less qualified person with some other disability. Perhaps the county would argue that it is all right to refuse to employ blind people as long as the county hires members of some other minority group. If there are women• on staff, if you can find Chicanos on the payroll, if Indians are employed doing service for the county, then it is perfectly acceptable to turn away the blind, well qualified though they be.
The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland has taken up this challenge and refuses to accept this logic. The blind must be treated as equals. If we can do the work we should be hired to do it. If we can perform the tasks that need performing, we must be given the chance. This is the case that we are going to make in the United States Federal District Court. Fred Stout, with the help of the National Federation of the Blind and the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland has taken Montgomery County to Court. The law is clear. The blind, along with everybody else, must be given equal treatment. We must be considered on terms of our merit not on the whim or supposition of those who think that the blind are helpless and hopeless. The blind of Maryland have joined in battle with Montgomery County. We have put our treasury behind this battle and our national office is helping. With that kind of commitment and with this kind of help, we of the National Federation of the Blind are unstoppable and unbeatable. We will make sure that the blind are treated as first class citizens and not as the wards of Montgomery County. And, we will prevail.
IT-WA-S-OU-R MOVE-A-THON FO- -R TH--E BLIND by Pat Maurer
The Greater Baltimore Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland had a Move-a-Thon and what a Move-a-Thon it was! Blind an sighted alike ran and walked to raise funds for the National Federation of the Blind. We continued to collect pledges. The walker who raises the most money and the runner who raises the most money will both receive trophies.
There was a party all day at the Inner Harbor. We had music from The Inner Visions and The Avenue Band. We drew for prizes donated by many of Baltimore's businesses. The public met blind people and learned about the National Federation of the Blind.
Runners and walkers received t-shirts, which are green with an NFB logo and a runner and walker in white. These t-shirts are available for $6 0. If you would like to buy at-shirt contact me. An advisory committee made up of Baltimore's business and community leaders worked closely with the Baltimore Chapter to make this Move-a-Thon a success. As we begin to plan for next year's Move-a-Thon I can see ,that it promises to be bigger and better than ever.
BEEPERS ON THE MTA by Marc Maurer
In the early 60's a popular song told the saga of Charlie on the MTA. Poor old Charlie was unaware of the subway fare increase. Because he needed an extra nickel to get off the subway, he was trapped and doomed forever to ride beneath the streets of Boston.
Today in Baltimore the MTA is trying to trap the blind, but it isn't so amusing. Special buzzers are being placed on subway cars ostensibly to help blind people fund their way. Despite our protests and the outraged assertion that the blind do not want such silly gadgetry, the MTA continues to insist that there will be these beepers. After carrying on negotiations until the MTA refused to deal with us, we took our complaint to the streets and the press.
The letter from the Administrator of the MTA, David Wagner (printed below) makes it clear that in his opinion the views of the NFB regarding blindness are not especially significant. Mr. Wagner states that he understands the problems we have raised with the buzzers and beepers. He even says he believes our point of view in general. However, when it comes to specifics he will continue to use his influence to insure that the buzzers and beepers remain. In other words, the specific story of the MTA is that the blind are helpless and need foolish gadgetry in order to get around. We cannot compete on terms of equality.
Our response to this paternalistic view is a resounding "no way!" On Friday, August 27, 1982, we took to the streets, dozens of us, to let the MTA know that the blind will not passively stand by and be patronized and belittled. We prepared informational leaflets (printed below) which told our story. We marched before the MTA. We distributed thousands of leaflets. We chanted our slogans. And we told our message to the news media. The newspapers printed it and the television and radio teams reported it. The blind would not be kept down and not be kept out and we would be heard. The articles carried the story and it went far and wide. As we have said so often in the past, we will speak for ourselves of independence, of dignity, and of progress toward full participation.
David Wagner, Administrator
Mass Transit Administration
109 East Redwood Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21202
June 23, 1982
Althea Pittman
911 Leadenhall Street
Apartment 610
Baltimore, Maryland 21230
Dear Miss Pittman:
I have carefully considered all factors involved with the beeper feature for the Baltimore Metro rail cars. Through my meeting with you and other representatives of the Federation I understand your position and the perspective of your organization. However, as Administrator of the Mass Transit Administration I have a responsibility to provide for the safety of all citizens who will use public transit.
It is because of this responsibility that I cannot discount nor ignore the needs of other blind persons who believe that this feature is needed for their safety in using the Baltimore Metro. Therefore, the MTA will proceed with the installation and operation of the beeper.
In general I endorse the purposes and beliefs of your organization. I am sensitive to your position that the beeper may continue the stereotype of blind persons needing assistance. Because of this the publicity of this feature will be targeted to special groups and not included in the general literature about the Baltimore Metro.
The MTA values the input of citizens who are concerned about the development and operation of transit. I look forward to the continued interest of the Federation.
Sincerely,
David Wagner
Administrator
BUSES AND SUBWAYS YES!
BUZZERS AND BEEPERS NO!
The .blind of Baltimore are doing everything possible to persuade the Mass Transit Administration (MTA) not to pursue its plan of installing automatic buzzers at the doors of subway cars. The blind say that the buzzers will help no one and cause distraction and unnecessary noise at subway stations.
The National Federation of the Blind, Baltimore Chapter, first learned of the MTA's plan to use these buzzers from a newspaper article last winter. The organization passed a resolution opposing it and began a series of meetings with David Wagner and other officials of MTA. In June the final answer was given: the buzzers would stay.
The National Federation of the Blind says that the MTA is irresponsible in not responding to the wishes of the blind of the city. It is easy for blind persons to use existing subways without special features for blind persons. "Our experience is that special features for the blind on subways or elsewhere will frequently mean that blind persons will not be permitted to go to places which do not have those features. Buzzers are a waste of taxpayers' money, harmful to the good name of the blind, and likely to cause even more problems for us." This statement was made by Marc Maurer, an energetic blind lawyer who is a leader in the National Federation of the Blind in Baltimore and a candidate for State Delegate in the legislature from the 41st District.
Mr. Maurer said, "Avoiding and eliminating such features as these buzzers is a national effort of the National Federation of the Blind. We wish we did not need to picket the MTA to get them to take us seriously, but they wouldn't listen to us so we must picket. Blind people in Baltimore need and use the buses, and the subway will be valuable to us. We support good public transportation. We deplore unnecessary and expensive gadgets for the blind."
At its recent convention in Minnesota, the National Federation of the Blind passed a resolution dealing with the problems of special features for the blind in rapid rail transit systems. The resolution is printed on the other side of this page. (Printed elsewhere in this issue.)
By Joseph A. DIPaola-Evenlni Sun staff Baltimore members of the National Federation for the Blind protest a $48,000 beeper system planned (or city sub ay ca .
Blind group opposes plan for subway cars
By Peter Ruehl
Evening Sun Staff
About 50 members of the Baltimore chapter
. of the National Federation of the Blind demon- started against a Mass Transit Administration plan designed to aid blind subway riders.
The demonstration yesterday outside the MTA headquarters on Redwood Street focused on a '48,000 beeper system proposed for subway cars.
The beepers would be located on the middle door of the cars, each of which will have three doors, according to MTA spokesman Jane How- and. Blind persons could use the "soft-toned" beep to determine where the door is located
when entering the train car.
"The idea is that the blind could use the center door and be steered away from the doors on ei- • there end," Howard said. "Otherwise they might mistake the space between the cars for a door." The National Federation of the Blind opposes
-the beepers on grounds they are unnecessary and too expensive for the service they render.
"Our experience," said Marc Maurer, a local federation leader, "is that special features for the blind on subways or elsewhere wow frequent- ly mean that blind persons will not be permitted to go places which do not have those features.
"Buzzers are a··waste of taxpayers’ money, harmful to the good name of the blind and likely to cause even more problems for us."
Many sighted persons, said David Robinson, the local chapter's secretary, may the spe:, call treatment being afforded the blind. In addition, he said most blind persons capable of taking the1rain do not need the beepers.,
"Anybody good enough to travel to the station, get •down to the trains; is good enough to get on and off when the doors open," he said.
Howard said the MTA decided to install the system after consultation with specialists in the area of handicapped services, including several blind persons. '
"Our decision was based on the recommendation of the transportation committee of the Maryland Rehabilitation Co1111Seling Association," she said. "We've been working with them on the design since 1972."
The national federation nevertheless has taken the position that the system is a frill. A Oler distributed daring the demonstration said the beepers "will help no one and cause distraction and unnecessary noise at subway stations."
Maurer said blind people "support good public transportation. We deplore unnecessary and ex- pensive gadgets for the blind.”.
Reporter Nick Yengich contributed to this article.
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND
RESOLUTION 82-17
WHEREAS, in recent years, there has been a trend for urban transit authorities to provide special services for the handicapped; and
WHEREAS, some special adaptions provided and recommended for the blind are harmful and inappropriate including beepers, bells, or buzzers above the train car doors; special signs which will either talk out loud or be used with a hand-held receiver; textured flooring in stati0ns; and special extensions protruding from the train car doors to decrease the gap between the train floor and the platform, and
WHEREAS, in August of 1981, Boston College prepared a study for the Urban Mass Transportation Administration entitled "Solutions for Problems of Visually Impaired Users of R il Rapid Transit" which includes recommendations for the items listed above and others equally unnecessary and harmful to the blind; and
WHEREAS, many blind people rely heavily on public transportation; and
WHEREAS, what is needed most by the blind is more and better transportation, not special features; and
WHEREAS, funds for public transportation are limited an-: i should be spent to benefit all riders including the blind; Now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind i11 Convention assembled this ninth day of July 1982, in the City of
Minneapolis, Minnesota, that this organization call upon the Urban Mass Transportation Administration to establish policies affecting the blind based upon recommendation gained through regular consultations with the National Federation of the Blind; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the. organization call upon the Urban Mass Transportation Administration to issue a statement to transit providers saying that the conclusions and recommendation is the Boston College study entitled "Solutions for Problems of Visually Impaired Users of Rail Rapid Transit" should not necessarily be regarded as the true reflections of the needs of the blind; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that local chapters and state affiliates of the National Federation of the Blind actively seek to work with and educate local transit authorities so that their policies will reflect the real needs and competencies of blind passengers and so that the funds for public mass-transportation will be spent for the good of all.
GOIN' TO JACKSON by Pat Maurer
We did it! We chartered a bus and went to Jackson! Twenty- five enthusiastic, high-spirited Federationists traveled the one thousand miles to Jackson, Mississippi to participate in the demonstration against the National Accreditation Council for Agencies Serving the Blind and Visually Handicapped (NAC). We joined with approximately three hundred and fifty Federationists demonstrating to let the public know of the resources wasted when funding NAC accredited agencies. We told everyone we could tell of the custodial treatment and often the unethical shenanigans of NAC and its accredited agencies.
We picketed in front of the Mississippi School for the Blind which is NAC accredited. We spent long hours singing and chanting in front of the hotel in which NAC was meeting. Additionally, fact sheets about NAC were handed to persons as they entered the gates at the football stadium on Saturday. As people entered their local churches on Sunday they were handed leaflets.
The newspaper carried our story as well as all of the local television stations. NAC's meetings keep getting shorter and the number in attendance fewer. Our numbers on the outside keep growing and our commitment increasing. We are really moving forward in our fight against NAC. Let's all plan to go NAC tracking when NAC meets in Florida next year.
BLIND VENDORS MEET
A Report on the Progress of Our Merchants Division by Raymond Lowder
On Saturday, November 20, the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland Vendors Chapter took a major step toward mobilizing the vending facility operators from throughout the state. The event was a meeting and informational seminar held at the National Center for the Blind in Baltimore. This was the first opportunity for several of the vendors to visit our national headquarters and to experience, first hand, the value of this facility as a resource to deal with the problems which all blind people face.
NFB President, Dr. Kenneth Jernigan, was on hand for much of the meeting. He led the discussion on a wide range of issues directly affecting every blind vendor in Maryland. Dr. Jernigan spoke from his years of experience as a director of state programs for the blind. He reviewed the ominous trend of recent legislation proposed in the Idaho and Louisiana Legislatures. These bills sought to eliminate the blind priority in the vending programs of these respective states. Fortunately, in both cases, the legislation was unsuccessful. However, each bill could have been passed had it not been for the efforts of the National Federation of the Blind to mobilize blind people to fight in the legislative halls. Dr. Jernigan made it clear, of course, that this was only the first round of such legislation. Even if one state were to pass such a bill, it is likely that a renewed effort would be made in Congress to overturn the entire national program.
James Gashel, Director of Governmental Affairs in the NFB's National Office, spoke specifically on the legal status of blind vendors in Maryland. Mr. Gashel urged the group to undertake a complete revision of the current "statement of relations," which contains the written policies governing the administration of the Randolph-Sheppard program in our state. He cited several of the current policies as being outmoded and inconsistent with the objective of strengthening vendors' rights. Mr. Gashel pointed out that the staff of Blind Industries and Services of Maryland may not always be as willing to work constructively with the blind as the current group is. Therefore, the vendors need adequate legal protections.
The need for all of us, vendors and nonvendors alike, to work together was a common theme from the beginning to the end of the meeting. Vendors cannot expect that other blind people will rally to the Randolph-Sheppard cause if they, the vendors, refuse to be a part of our total movement. After all, we as blind people share in common problems which other blind people have. Therefore, the point was made that vendors, as well as all of us, should be willing to work together to help one another, whether the problem is an SSI appeal, a workshop problem, a case of employment discrimination, poor service, etc. The meeting adjourned with this point clearly understood.
Officers elected for the coming year are Raymond Lowder, President; Joel Byard, Vice President; Pat Capuano, Secretary- Treasurer; Don Glover, Board Member; and Pete Reppert, Board Member. For future matters concerning the Vendors Chapter, see these members and come to the meetings!
LEGISLATIVE OPEN HOUSE IN BALTIMORE--A SUCCESS by Marlene Elliott
The Baltimore Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind held its annual legislative open house on November 22, 1982 at the National Center for the Blind in Baltimore. The event was held to acquaint the legislators in the Baltimore area with the Federation and its goals and philosophies, and to solicit their support of legislation that promotes the best interests of the blind.
The open house was attended by many of the delegates and senators and Mayor William Donald Schaefer of Baltimore City. The legislators were taken on a tour of the National Center and shown various demonstrations including Braille, the Kurzweil Reading Machine, thermoform Braille reproduction, and they viewed the film "We Know Who We Are." Following the film and tour refreshments were served in the Harbor Room.
The high point of the evening was the presentation to Mayor Schaefer by Dr. Jernigan of a gold membership pin and a certificate making him an honorary member of the National Federation of the Blind. The Mayor was very pleased. He was also impressed with the renovations to the Center considering that no governmental funds were involved.
This affair was a success due to the collective efforts of all involved.
Below is a copy of the Certificate of Honorary Membership.
CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION and HONORARY MEMBERSHIP
MAYOR WILLIAM DONALD SCHAEFER
In recognition of dedication and commitment to the people of the City of Baltimore; because you recognized the importance to blind persons of the National Federation of the Blind, and accordingly, proclaimed October, 1982, as NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND MONTH IN BALTIMORE CITY; and in recognition of your visit here tonight, we hereby make you an
HONORARY MEMBER OF THE
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND
November 22, 1982
Kenneth Jernigan, President
National Federation of the Blind
James Omvig, President National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
Marc Maurer, President
Greater Baltimore Chapter,
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
A DAY WITH THE LAWMAKERS: COME TO ANNAPOLIS by Marc Maurer
Again, this year, we will be meeting with the members of the General Assembly of Maryland in Annapolis. The day is January 27 and the place is our State Capitol. Again, this year, we have matters of vital concern to discuss with our legislators. Will we have a supplement for the Social Security Supplemental Security Income program? Will legislators understand that the rehabilitation process in the State of Maryland must be different? Will legislators come to understand that the blind of the state are not the same as the agencies for the blind? This is a matter which is up to us. We must tell our legislators and get them to understand.
On January 27, 1983, we will be meeting in Annapolis for our Annual Legislative Day. We will be taking our views to the legislature and informing them about the problems faced by blind people and the ways to solve those problems. This year we will have a slightly different program. We need a change in the structure of services for the blind. We need a supplement to the SSI Program. In the past we have had breakfast or dinner with our legislators. This year we will have a legislative reception and a demonstration display. We will show the abilities of blind people not just through speeches, not just through literature, not just through program presentations, but through displays of the work that we have done. We will be meeting all day in Annapolis with our legislators beginning Thursday morning, early, and running throughout the day. At six o'clock that evening we will be gathering at the Hilton Hotel for a reception. This is a new effort. We have never tried to show our abilities through demonstration. We have always tried the traditional approaches. Let us come together and speak out with a unified and positive voice. Let us speak through our actions, through our words, through our deeds. Let us show them our independence not only in our words but in the way that we conduct ourselves and the spirit with which we meet the challenge. Come to Annapolis! Come and show the legislature!
AGE OF MAJORITY I.D.'s ARE VALID by Jim Omvig
Shortly before our recent state convention, it was brought to our attention that certain merchants and lending institutions were failing to recognize the validity of the Age of Majority Card for identification purposes. The convention passed a resolution on this matter (printed elsewhere in this issue). After the convention, the following exchange of correspondence took place:
NFB letter:
National Federation of the Blind
of Maryland
James Omvig, President
364 Marydell Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21229
(301) 644-4445
October 4, 1982
Mr. William Bricker, Administrator Motor Vehicle Administration
6601 Ritchie Highway Glen Burnie, Maryland 21062
Dear Mr. Bricker:
We of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland would like clarification from your department concerning the Age of Majority Identification Card. Attached is a copy of Resolution 82-06 adopted unanimously at our recent State Convention.
The problem is this. When more and more merchants and bankers began to use driver's licenses for valid identification purposes, blind persons often found themselves in a position of having no identification. We, and other groups, proposed in various states that driver's licenses for identification purposes only be issued so that identification problems could be solved.
We thought this had been accomplished to everyone's satisfaction in the State of Maryland. However, now we find that the Maryland card is not regarded as a valid piece of personal identification.
Please let me know of the official status of the card which you issue. If it is official, then perhaps more publicity is needed. If it is not official, then I suspect more legislation is needed.
I would appreciate hearing from you as quickly as possible so that we can bring about a satisfactory resolution to this problem.
Very truly yours,
James H. Omvig President
Enclosure
JHO/db
Letter in response:
Maryland Department of Transportation
Motor Vehicle Administration
Lowell K. Bridwell, Secretary William T. S. Bricker, Administrator 6601 Ritchie Highway, N.E. Glen Burnie, Maryland 21062
October 8, 1982
Mr. James H. Omvig, President
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
364 Marydell Road Baltimore, Maryland 21229
Dear Mr. Omvig:
I have your letter of October 4, 1982, requesting clarification concerning the Maryland Age of Majority Card.
The Maryland Driver's License, Age of Majority Card and Special Identification Card are all official documents issued by the Motor Vehicle Administration and should be accepted by merchants for identification purposes.
As you pointed out in your letter, Maryland Legislature enacted the Age of Majority Card Law so individuals who did not possess a driver's license could secure an official identification document. I am forwarding a copy of your letter, together with my response to Edward McNeal, Executive Director of the Retail Merchants Association, with the request that he notify all members of the Association of the problem and request their cooperation in honoring the Age of Majority Card for identification purposes.
With kindest regards.
Sincerely,
William T. S. Bricker
Administrator
WTSB: NJS:jsw cc:
Edward McNeal, Executive Director Retail
Merchants Association
SLIGO CREEK CHAPTER REPORT by David Robinson
Since the return of eleven members of our chapter from the National Convention this summer, the Sligo Creek Chapter has been very active. We have an ever-increasing membership and have begun to take a more active role in the local affairs affecting the blind in the Montgomery and Prince George's County areas.
Several of us spent the summer preparing for the State Convention, planning and participating in the Swim-A-Thon. The chapter raised approximately sixteen hundred dollars in the Swim-A-Thon and looks forward to even greater success next year.
The approach of Labor Day found our thoughts and plans turning to the legislature. As we did last year, the chapter held a legislative reception for all candidates, delegates and senators from the two-county area. The October 29 reception was designed to begin the process of educating our legislators about blindness and issues of concern to the NFB of Maryland. The issue most discussed at this very successful event was, of course, the Consolidated Services Bill. The chapter received excellent responses from the event, and we are beginning to be recognized by our legislators as the source of information on issues related to blindness.
Fundraising projects for the fall include a nut sale and a stuffed animal sale. Both, as of this writing, show success. We plan to continue both sale efforts through December.
The Public Relations Committee of our chapter is putting together a brochure of local resources that may be of interest to blind persons. The brochure will have the message of the Federation and will be distributed widely in the two counties. We have hopes of receiving support for the cost of this brochure from a local business. This project should help to tell other blind people about the Federation and, as a result, they will join us.
Other projects that we are involved with include the local agency, Volunteers for the Visually Handicapped. Several of our members are on the board of directors of this agency and are working to improve the services of the agency.
The past year has seen substantial progress, and we hope to continue in this vane. Also, three of our members went NAC tracking on the Maryland bus to Jackson, Mississippi. We were tired but had great fun and upon returning we began to understand even more the need of all of us to participate in the NAC tracking trips.
The chapter is also pleased to be hosting December 11
State Board Meeting. We promise everyone attending a productive
and enjoyable day. The weekend before the board meeting, we will be looking forward to assisting the Student Division of the NFB of Maryland with its fall meeting at the University of Maryland on December 4, from 1: OO p.m. to 4: OO p.m. at the Student Union on Campus Drive in College Park.
Last, but certainly not least, many members of our chapter and their friends and guests visited Baltimore on November 20 to tour the National Center for the Blind and joined with the Baltimore Chapter at their monthly meeting. It was a wonderful trip, and all of our chapter came away with a renewed sense of dedication and a greater understanding of the purpose and impact of our movement.
We will continue to sign up members on the PAC Plan and encourage them to get Associates. Touring the National Center has made us realize the need for redoubling our efforts in our own chapter.
We are now busy saving for the trip to the National Convention in Kansas City. We take this opportunity to wish all Federationists and friends around the state the happiest of holidays and look forward to seeing many Marylanders in Kansas City next summer.
SPECTATOR SPECS
On December 4, 1982, the NFB of Maryland, Student Division held a meeting at University of Maryland, College Park Campus. Our Student Chapter President, Brenda Williams presided. The issues discussed were of concern to blind students of Maryland. This shows the continued dedication and commitment of our Student Chapter to improvement of services for blind students in our state.
The March on Washington will occur on January 31,
1982, and February 1 and 2, 1983. Everyone who can should plan to join us in talking with our congressmen and senators. We will be staying at the Capitol Holiday Inn at 550 C Street, S.W. The Presidential Release will have further details.
If you pledged to give money to the NFB of Maryland during our state convention and have not yet done so don't forget to send your pledges in. If you have not pledged but would like to send your donation, contact Jim Omvig, President or Alfred Maneki, Treasurer.
Georgia Meyers, Treasurer of our Cumberland Chapter, has been much in the judicial news lately. First, she ran for Judge of the Orphan's Court, unfortunately, this campaign was unsuccessful, but Georgia made an extremely good showing. Then, in November, she successfully defended herself and the Cumberland Chapter in a lawsuit which tried to pry money out of our chapter in Cumberland. Keep up the good work.
Marla Miller and Dave Robinson participated in a program of emergency disaster training. As they learned how to handle such situations, the trainers learned how to deal with blindness and blind people.
From the Editor, Althea Pittman, the next Spectator will soon be under way. If you have articles, poems, or information about the local chapter in your area, please send this information to me. If someone in your chapter did not receive the Spectator this time, please send his name and address to me. If you receive the tape edition, please return the tape. If you do not return the tape, the next issue will come to you in print.
Resolutions
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND RESOLUTION 82-01
JOBS AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE
HANDICAPPED ACT OF 1982
WHEREAS, H.R. 6529 is a bill known as the Jobs and Business Opportunities for the Handicapped Act of 1982 introduced in the second session of the 97th Congress; and
WHEREAS, the enactment of this legislation would be a giant step toward the promotion of fair employment practices for blind and handicapped people who work in sheltered workshops and would also provide incentive for more jobs in the competitive labor market; and
WHEREAS, this legislation will also encourage employment advancement opportunities for blind and handicapped people to work in management and supervisory positions in industry; and
WHEREAS, Maryland has become a model State in support of the principles of H.R. 6529 as exemplified by the reforms made over the past seven years by Blind
Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM); and
WHEREAS, the blind of Maryland are proud of BISM's national leadership in providing fair employment opportunities for the blind: now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in convention assembled in the City of Baltimore this 29th day of August 1982, that this organization urge all members of the United States House of
Representatives from Maryland to become co-sponsors of H.R. 6529; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we commend Representative Clarence Long for being the first, and so far, the only, member of our Congressional Delegation to co-sponsor this vital legislation.
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND RESOLUTION 82-02A
MATHIAS SUPPORT FOR MINIMUM WAGE LAW
WHEREAS, Senator Charles (Mc) Mathias is one of four Senate Sponsors of Senate Bill 2056, calling for an end to the practice of paying blind people less than the federal minimum wage; and,
WHEREAS, S. 2056 represents a long-standing policy of the
National Federation of the Blind as well as the current policy of Blind Industries and Services of Maryland; and,
WHEREAS, ending the injustice of subminimum wage is a practical and a moral imperative not only for the blind of Maryland, but all the blind throughout the United States as wel1: now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED, by the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland in convention assembled in the City of Baltimore this 28th day of August 1982, that we commend Senator Mathias for standing tall with the blind of Maryland by co-sponsoring S.
2056.
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND RESOLUTION 82-03
JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE BLIND
WHEREAS, blind citizens of Maryland have received substantial benefit from a program known as Job Opportunities for the Blind (JOB); and
WHEREAS, JOB is funded by the United States Department of Labor in contract with the National Federation of the Blind; and
WHEREAS, the employment opportunities of blind persons generated by JOB have made several hundred blind persons self-supporting, taxpaying citizens, thus reducing the need for welfare assistance; and
WHEREAS, continued operation of JOB beyond October 31, 1982, depends upon pending Congressional action on employment and training legislation as well as continuing commitment from the United States Department of Labor to support this unique and very successful project: now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland in convention assembled in the City of Baltimore on this 28th day of August 1982, that we ask all members of the Maryland Congressional Delegation to join in calling for the continuation of Job Opportunities for the Blind, an essential cost-effective service which pays its own way by the outstanding results that are achieved.
RESOLUTION 82-04
STATE SUPPLEMENT TO SSI
WHEREAS, 600 blind Marylanders of working age are forced to subsist on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits because they are consistently denied opportunities for employment; and
WHEREAS, most states supplement federal SSI benefits to bring payments to the blind, disabled and aged, who have no, or meager resources, in line with the cost of living; and
WHEREAS, a blind individual having a given income has less spendable income than a sighted individual with identical resources since the blind incurs unique expenses;
e.g. all of us, on occasion, must hire a reader; and
WHEREAS, in recognition of this fact, four states provide larger SSI benefits to blind recipients than recipients who are aged or disabled, and since 1974, the State of Iowa has provided a supplement to SSI to blind recipients only; and
WHEREAS, Maryland currently provides a small SSI supplement to those blind recipients who would have had a larger grant under Aid to the Dependent Blind than that provided by SSI alone; and
WHEREAS, many blind persons on SSI are striving to enter the job market and no rehabilitation program provides financial assistance covering the cost of a systematic job search; and
WHEREAS, it is clearly in the taxpayer's interest to assist those striving to leave the public assistance rolls and get on payrolls: now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in convention assembled in the City of Baltimore, this 28th day of August, 1982, that the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland undertake all necessary actions to work with the Governor and member of the General Assembly for the purpose of establishing a state supplement of no less than $50 a month which would be added to SSI checks to blind SSI recipients in Maryland
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND RESOLUTION 82-05
MASS TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION
WHEREAS, the Mass Transit Administration has announced its plan to install buzzers at subway doors in order "to make it possible for the blind to find the doors" - a decision which was made without consulting the blind to determine if a real need exists; and
WHEREAS, these "buzzers for the blind" will encourage all subway
riders to believe that the blind are helpless and will encourage newly blinded persons falsely to assume that they can travel only where buzzers exist; and
WHEREAS, the organized blind of Baltimore have attempted to prevent the installation of these buzzers through correspondence, meetings, by negotiation, and when all else failed, by picketing the MTA headquarters; and
WHEREAS, the views of the National Federation of the Blind have been consistently and flagrantly disregarded - a situation which cannot be tolerated; and
WHEREAS, these unnecessary and unwanted "buzzers for the blind" will cost Maryland taxpayers more than $48,000.00: now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland in convention assembled in the City of Baltimore this 28th day of August 1982 that this organization condemns and deplores the "buzzers for the blind" and the insensitivity which they exemplify; and
· BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this organization appeals to the Maryland State Board of Public Works to stop the installation of buzzers on subway car doors; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call upon the Maryland State Board of Public Works to instruct the MTA that all future decisions affecting the blind must be made in consultation with the organized blind - the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland.
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND RESOLUTION 82-06
"Age of Majority" Cards for ID Purposes
WHEREAS, the Maryland General Assembly has enacted legislation authorizing the Maryland State Department of Motor Vehicles to issue an "Age of Majority" identification card to be used by persons who for whatever reason do not have a valid driver's license; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of the "Age of Majority" card is to enable persons not having a driver's license to have a means of personal identification for conducting financial transactions and other types of business activities; and
WHEREAS, contrary to this stated purpose, experience shows that this card is often not accepted as valid identification, especially in dealing with financial institutions and credit agencies; and
WHEREAS, this card should be considered as valid identification and should have the same legal standing as the driver's license: now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in convention assembled in the City of Baltimore, Maryland this 29th day of August, 1982 that this organization work with officials of the Department of Motor Vehicles, legislative officials and persons in the private sector who can help achieve full acceptance of the "Age of Majority"
THE POET'S CORNER
Debbie Robinson, Chairperson of the PAC and Associates Committee
THE PAC PLAN SONG
Get on the PAC Plan.
Sign up today. We need your contribution Right away.
Funding our movement Has to be done So all our battles Can be won.