Convention Notes

Meet our National Representative:
John Paré, Executive Director of Advocacy & Policy, National Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute

John Paré serves as the Executive Director of Advocacy & Policy at the National Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute. In this leadership role, Mr. Paré is responsible for overseeing several key initiatives that impact the blind community. One of his most notable responsibilities is managing the NFB-NEWSLINE® program, the largest electronic newspaper service in the world, which provides blind and print-disabled individuals with access to newspapers, magazines, and other print materials in accessible formats.

Additionally, he manages the Independence Market, which offers a wide range of adaptive products to help blind individuals achieve greater independence, as well as the Federation’s Governmental Affairs office, where he leads efforts to advocate for policy changes that benefit blind Americans.

Mr. Paré's expertise in public policy and his advocacy for the rights of blind individuals have led to significant legislative successes. He has testified before the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, Legislative Branch Subcommittee on Library Services for blind Americans, highlighting the need for accessible resources and services. He played an instrumental role in the negotiations and successful passage of the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act, a crucial piece of legislation that improves safety features for pedestrians who are blind or visually impaired, and the Marrakesh Treaty Implementation Act, which expands access to printed books and other published works for people with print disabilities.

In addition to his work in policy advocacy, Mr. Paré has appeared on major media outlets such as CNN, Fox News, BBC, and various radio programs to discuss issues affecting blind Americans. His efforts to raise awareness and advocate for policy change have helped bring attention to the challenges faced by blind individuals, as well as the solutions needed to ensure greater equality and inclusion.

Mr. Paré holds both a bachelor's and a master's degree from the University of Florida in Gainesville, where he developed a strong foundation in the skills that would later support his influential career in advocating for the blind community.

John Paré’s personal journey has been one of resilience, passion, and unwavering advocacy for the blind community. Born blind, Mr. Paré’s experiences growing up were marked by the challenges faced by blind individuals in a society that often overlooked their potential. Raised in a family that emphasized the value of education, independence, and community, John learned early on the importance of advocacy and support in overcoming obstacles. His parents, who instilled in him a belief in the power of perseverance, encouraged him to participate in mainstream education and community activities, helping him develop a strong sense of self and purpose.

As a child, John was often one of the few blind students in his school, and he faced many of the misconceptions and challenges that come with being a minority in a typical classroom setting. These formative years shaped his deep understanding of the need for social change and greater acceptance of people with disabilities. He was not content to simply adapt to societal expectations but sought to challenge and change them, advocating for better opportunities for blind individuals, particularly in education and employment. His involvement in advocacy started in his teenage years, participating in local organizations that promoted disability rights and access to resources.

John Paré’s involvement with the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) has been one of the most defining aspects of his life and career. He first became involved with the NFB as a young adult, seeking out a community of like-minded individuals who shared his passion for advocating for the rights and opportunities of blind people. At the NFB, John found not only a network of support but also a platform for enacting real change in the lives of blind Americans.

Over the years, John has held a variety of leadership roles within the organization, gradually taking on greater responsibility and influence. His commitment to the NFB’s mission of promoting equality and independence for blind people was evident from the start, and it quickly became clear that John’s leadership skills and personal dedication would be vital to the success of the Federation’s advocacy efforts. He became deeply involved in the NFB’s grassroots efforts, engaging with local chapters and national programs to build a unified voice for the blind community.

As a leader within the NFB, John contributed to the development and expansion of several key initiatives that are still critical to the blind community today, including the NFB-NEWSLINE® program. His work helped to enhance this groundbreaking service, which continues to serve as a lifeline for blind individuals by providing access to newspapers, magazines, and other reading materials in a format that is fully accessible. Additionally, John’s leadership was instrumental in the creation and expansion of other programs aimed at promoting independence, such as the Independence Market, which provides tools and resources to help blind individuals live more autonomous lives.

John's commitment to policy change has also been a central aspect of his work with the NFB. He played a crucial role in advancing the Federation’s advocacy initiatives, particularly in pushing for legislation that improves accessibility, safety, and opportunities for blind individuals. He was an active participant in the efforts that led to the passage of landmark legislation like the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act and the Marrakesh Treaty Implementation Act. His efforts in government relations, including testifying before Congressional committees, have helped the NFB gain a prominent voice in national conversations about disability rights and policy.

Throughout his involvement with the NFB, John has been a staunch advocate for the power of collective action. He believes that the strength of the Federation lies in its members and their ability to work together toward common goals. His vision of an inclusive society, in which blind individuals are given the same rights and opportunities as everyone else, has shaped his leadership style and his work in advocacy.

The NFB has provided John Paré with the tools, mentorship, and resources to make lasting contributions to the blind community, and in turn, John has become one of the Federation’s most influential and respected leaders. His ongoing work within the NFB continues to inspire new generations of blind individuals to become involved in advocacy and to pursue their dreams without limits.

National Scholarship Program–Call for Applications Begins December 1

Every year, the National Federation of the Blind awards more than $250,000 to blind scholars across fifty states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, in recognition of their academic achievements and professional aspirations. Each scholarship is awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. For information on eligibility, requirements, application, checklist, and FAQs, please visit:
https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and- awards/scholarship- program

Let others know about this program that invests in the future of blind people.

Pre-Authorized Contribution Plan (PAC Plan)

The PAC Plan helps fund important projects such as the NFB Free White Cane program, and is also used to take care of “rainy day” expenditures that may arise unexpectedly. Contributors designate an amount, which can be as little as five dollars per month, to be automatically deducted from a checking or savings account or charged to a credit card. To arrange for PAC Plan contributions, go to www.nfb.org/pac and fill out the form. The National Center will call you to get payment information. You can also call 877-635-2711 or email pac@nfb.org to enroll.

Exhibitors, Resources, and Sponsors

The NFBNJ thanks all our exhibitors and sponsors for your continued support. You help us raise expectations so that we can live the life we want. Please visit our website and view the list of this year’s exhibitors and sponsors.

https://www.nfbnj.org/state-convention/exhibitors-and-sponsors..

The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey expresses its appreciation to all members and non-members who attended our 49th Annual State Convention

Thank you for coming

Linda Melendez, President
National Federation of the Blind of
New Jersey
908-590-1747
president@nfbnj.org

For the list of affiliate board members, chapters, committees, groups, and programs, please visit www.nfbnj.org.

We are grateful to all those who contributed time, effort, and ideas to the 49th Annual State Convention of the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey, Becoming Champions!