See Blindness and Low Vision Differently

BLINDNESS 101

An interactive workshop led by lived experience

A Blindness 101 workshop in action. In the foreground, presenter Shawn Marsolais smiles warmly while holding a white mobility cane. Behind her, approximately 15 participants are seated at a U-shaped arrangement of tables, looking toward the camera.

What is Blindness 101?

Blindness 101 is a two-hour interactive workshop designed to challenge common assumptions about blindness and provide practical tools for inclusion. Attendees practice sighted guide technique and participate in blindfold simulations which are always debriefed by a facilitator with lived experience since it’s been shown that exercises like blindfold simulations can actually accidentally reinforce negative stereotypes. They also learn about the importance of inclusive language and how to feel confident navigating social interactions with people who are blind and low vision.

We do things differently. When participants spend two hours in a room with a capable facilitator who is blind or low vision, it completely shifts their perception of what is possible. Every blindfold simulation and sighted guide practice activity is immediately unpacked and debriefed by a someone who navigates the world without sight every single day, giving the workshop participants valuable context and perspective on what they’ve experienced.

Watch: See what to expect and discover the benefits of a Blindness 101 Workshop from past participants.

Blindness 101 is perfect for:

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    Educators & School Staff

    looking to make classrooms more accessible.

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    Customer service teams and businesses

    aiming to create a welcoming experience for all patrons.

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    Employers and HR departments

    actively building out their EDI initiatives.

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    Healthcare providers and recreation leaders

    who want better tools to support their clients.

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    Individuals

    who want to feel more comfortable around people who are blind and low vision.

Hands-On Learning.

We know your team is busy, which is why Blindness 101 is designed to be a two-hour interactive session. You won't just be taking notes. Participants leave with increased confidence, a deeper understanding of blindness and low vision, and the practical tools to reduce barriers in their own spaces.

Every one of our facilitators has lived experience with blindness and low vision. By sharing their own perspectives, they push Blindness 101 past a simple workshop and create a space for honest, practical learning.

An outdoor sighted-guide simulation in progress. A participant wearing a blindfold holds the arm of her sighted partner just above the elbow as they navigate a walkway lined with bushes together.

Workshop Highlights include:

Demystifying the Blind Experience: We explore the lived experiences of the blind and low vision community, challenge common assumptions, and look at everyday strategies used for learning, mobility, and independence.

Communication & Interaction: Learn respectful language, basic etiquette, and exactly how to engage, approach, or offer assistance to someone who is blind and low vision.

Assistive Tools in Action: Get an introduction to common mobility tools and accessibility technologies (such as braille) directly from the perspective of the people who rely on them.

Building Inclusive Environments: Learn about real world accommodations that help reduce barriers in classrooms, workplaces, and public spaces.

What You’ll Gain:

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    Increased confidence

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    Deeper Understanding of Blindness

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    Tools to reduce barriers

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    Greater Awareness of Inclusive Practices

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    Insight Directly from Lived Experience

Ready to bring Blindness 101 to your business or organization?

We are incredibly excited to share that, thanks to funding for National AccessAbility Week from the Government of Canada’s Social Development Partnerships Program, we are able to provide up to 30 Blindness 101 sessions to organizations in 2026 at no cost.

These funded spots are limited, so make sure you get your request in as soon as possible!