The Braille System: Reading without the Eyes
Frida, a 6-year-old girl always had the dream of becoming a Computer Scientist in a big company. The dream seemed dashed when her congenital glaucoma worsened due to complications which resulted in blindness. Poor Frida had to change schools and had to learn how to read all over again. She always wondered how would become when she could not read nor write due to her sight loss. She shared her concerns with her mother who told her about braille system of learning which she heard about on the healthy hour on the radio. Frida was enthusiastic about learning the best way to cope with her condition while living her best life.
Did you know?
The Braille system is used by 10% of the world population who are legally blind and is commonly used in Latin American and Eurasian countries.The Braille system of learning for the visually impaired in one or both eyes was introduced by Louis Braille who was blind in one eye and eventually lost sight in both eyes.
January 4th marks the birthday of Louis Braille, the inventor of the Braille system and also the day the world celebrates the achievements of it’s creator which has made it possible for inclusivity of individuals who are visually impaired.
In 2020, the global prevalence of blindness
was estimated to be 43.3 million people, or 0.62% of the world’s population. This was an increase from 34.4 million in 1990, but the age-standardized prevalence of blindness actually decreased between those years.
Braille…What does it mean?
Braille is a tactile representation of alphabetic and numerical symbols using six dots to represent each letter and number, and even musical, mathematical and scientific symbols. Braille (named after its inventor Louis Braille) is used by blind and partially sighted people to read the same books and periodicals as those printed in a visual font.
Why is celebrating world Braille day so important?
This day reminds us of the importance of significant efforts made to ensure inclusivity of the visually handicapped as a means to give them a sense of belonging in a world that is somewhat prejudicial.
It creates awareness about visual impairment, its challenges, and the importance of accessibility and inclusion which promotes inclusive education, employment, and societal participation for visually impaired individuals.
Equal access to education, information, and opportunities, bridging the gap between the sighted and visually impaired communities is possible as sight is no longer a barrier to learning. Hence, a level ground is possible between the sighted and visually impaired communities.
The day highlights advancements in Braille technology, such as digital Braille displays and Braille-enabled smartphones.
What can I do to support?
A helping hand makes the difference. Creating awareness reduces stigmatization. The visually challenged don’t have to live alone, you can make all the difference there is.
Volunteer with local organizations that support the visually impaired, such as Braille libraries, schools, or advocacy groups where one can offer to read to them, assist with daily tasks, or provide technical support.
One can promote Braille Literacy by learning the art and it’s importance. Contribute to growth through magazines, or other materials to libraries, schools, or organizations supporting the visually impaired.
Speak up on the accessibility of suitable environment and accessible technologies such as screen readers, Braille displays, and audio descriptions.
Support policies that promote accessibility, inclusivity, and equal opportunities for visually impaired individuals.
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