White Canes Connect episode 147 features a powerful address from National Federation of the Blind President Mark Riccobono, delivered to the NFB of Pennsylvania State Convention in Harrisburg. Reflecting on the eve of the organization's 85th anniversary, President Riccobono shares his personal journey of discovering the Federation in 1996 and how the community transformed his understanding of blindness, leadership, and collective action.
He highlights landmark achievements driven by blind-led advocacy—from advancing Braille literacy and accessible technology to expanding opportunity in education and employment—and reminds us that progress is only possible when blind people speak and act for themselves.
Looking ahead, he calls on members to lead in emerging areas like artificial intelligence, preserve our history through storytelling, and continue building a diverse, unified movement. His message is both a celebration of how far we've come and a challenge to invest in the future we are creating together.
Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/147
Donate to the NFB of PA
Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Please support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit http://www.supportpablind.org.
Keep Up-to-date with the Affiliate
Learn about chapter and division meetings and fundraisers on Federation Focus. It's available on the affiliate's YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa. New episodes drop every Monday.
We Want to Hear Your Story
Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.
Follow White Canes Connect
Find out why White Canes Connect is currently ranked as one of the 100 Best Visually Impaired Podcast. Find the show on:
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast
Visit our website at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/.
