Tony Stephens

Since 1992, December 3rd has been recognized as the International Day for Persons with Disabilities. It is important to recognize the voices of the hundreds of millions of people with disabilities who are burdened by the political and social forces in their native land. At the same time, we must identify ways to leverage the technological breakthroughs that have revolutionized our world and find ways to allow this technology to become a key driver toward expanding opportunity and independence…

Today marks the 143rd birthday of Helen Keller, who remains one of the great icons of inspiration in American history. As we take time to remember Helen’s impact on the world, we want to draw attention to those who walked alongside her during her life. It’s in their stories that Helen’s greatness truly comes to light, and we’re reminded that we’re strongest when we’re not alone. 65th birthday celebration for Helen Keller at the Brooklyn Industrial Home for the Blind, Brooklyn, NY. Left to…

For many Americans, this long-weekend marks the beginning of summer, when families across the country dust off their coolers and unpack their beach chairs from winter storage. But, as families make their way to the shore or their local park, it’s important to pause and remind ourselves of the significance this holiday plays in our freedom and independence, particularly for those within the blindness field. At the American Foundation for the Blind, our own history is steeped in the sacrifices…

Each year, the third Thursday of the month marks Global Accessibility Awareness Day. This year, on May 18th, the American Foundation for the Blind wanted to share some updates and actions we can all take to help make the world more inclusive online for people with disabilities. Since developer Joe Devon first posed the concept of a day dedicated to expanding awareness in late 2011, we have seen a continuous uptick in the participation #GAAD garners each year. Now in its 12th year, it’s been…

The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) celebrated on Tuesday, May 2nd, the completion of the third cohort of fellows in the Blind Leaders Development Program. The special evening event brought together participants, along with family and friends, who gathered together virtually from across the country. The third cohort of AFB Blind Leaders Fellows spent the past ten months immersed in The Leadership Challenge, an engaging professional development curriculum designed to bolster confidence…