In Episode 138 of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein welcome back Shawn Callaway, President of both the National Federation of the Blind of the District of Columbia and the National Organization of Blind Black Leaders (NOBBL). Shawn shares updates on NOBBL's growth, programming, and plans for the upcoming National Convention in New Orleans. He reflects on the organization's journey from its roots in the DEI Committee in 2018 to its official division status in 2022.
Shawn highlights NOBBL's active committees, including groups for Black women, men, seniors, elected leaders, and HBCU outreach. He emphasizes NOBBL's mission to create space for Black blind voices within both the Federation and the broader community, building partnerships with groups like the National Council of Negro Women and launching their first national convention community service project.
The conversation also touches on NOBBL's role in supporting Black blind students through scholarships, mentoring first-time convention attendees, and building leadership pipelines for the future. With over 150 active members and packed convention meetings, NOBBL continues to grow and push for greater visibility and inclusion. Shawn closes with a tease of something big coming in 2026—and a friendly rivalry with Eagles fans.
The NOBBLmeeting at National Convention is Thursday at 6:00 PM CDT in Gallery 5. Use the #NFB25 app for any last minute changes and to create your own schedule at convention.
Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/138
Links Mentioned
- Interested in joining NOBBL? Email diversity@nfb.org for more information
- Have you checked out Federation Focus yet? https://www.youtube.com/@nfbofpa/
Women Healed For A Purpose Author Cirde
Join WHFAP "She Writes" panel discussion & bits and pieces from the panelist's work.
July 5, 2025 / 11:00am-1:00pm
Park Towers Community Room
4001 Conshohocken Ave., Phila., PA 19131 (you know the place). Invite others and share the information please.
Panelists are:
RuNett Nia Ebo - Poet
Michele A. Vann
Rebecca Rush
Delvia Berrian
Mary Washam
Click here to register:
https://forms.gle/bZntyTf9mMZk9Wnu7
Registration is free
An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA
Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.
Donate to the NFB of PA
Like what you hear on White Canes Connect? Support us and donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.
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