We, the Board of Directors of BLIND, Inc., are committed to the security, professionalism, and safety of our staff and students. We unequivocally recognize and acknowledge the pain that some have experienced in the blindness community, rehabilitation centers, and National Federation of the Blind-sponsored events. We will hold ourselves accountable for real, action-oriented, and transparent change.
We endorse the Open Letter of Apology from President Riccobono
that was sent on December 16, 2020. We share in this apology and fully commit to doing better to prevent future misconduct and abuse and to support the healing of victims and survivors.
In addition to the actions outlined by NFB’s president, Mark Riccobono, we, the Board of Directors of BLIND, Inc. are prioritizing the below actions:
1. Reviewing current policies and procedures to ensure that all victims and survivors are protected and supported.
2. Improving training to incorporate more frequent and interactive trainings on sexual assault and harassment, cultural competency, sensitivity, and overall conduct, involving both local and broader third-parties to execute these trainings.
3. Increasing communication to ensure all issues are addressed proactively, intentionally, and without delay.
We do not tolerate any forms of misconduct or abuse and will continue socializing our policies to ensure this is widely known as unacceptable and prohibited. First and foremost, we are deeply committed to our students, staff, volunteers, and community partners. Further, we are listening and welcome any feedback and input.
Respectfully,
The Board of Directors of BLIND, Inc.:
Jennifer Kennedy, Executive Director
Jennifer Dunnam
Tim Aune
Kathryn Webster
Ryan Strunk
Candice Chapman
Greg Stilson