Dear Friends and Colleagues,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to bring to your attention a distressing incident that occurred during my recent journey from Kudachi’ district in Karntaka to Pune. My colleague, Mr. Sadik Pathan, and I had attended a family event in Miraj and took the opportunity to visit the Junnediya Education English Medium School for Girls in Kudachi. Mr. Iqbal Sattar, the executive director, graciously welcomed us, allowing me to share my experiences as a deafblind individual advocating for the deafblind community in India.
Our return journey, however, took an unfortunate turn. On the morning of December 27, 2023, at 3 am, we reached Pune by train and decided to take a state bus. Our plan was for me to disembark at Bopodi, near my parents’ place, while Mr. Sadik continued to Nashik on the same bus. Unfortunately, the conductor refused to let me get off at Bopodi, citing government rules. Despite Mr. Sadik’s pleas, the conductor’s response was both disrespectful and uncooperative.
In the face of this situation, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I disembarked from the bus, finding myself alone on the road, unable to see or hear my surroundings. The lack of assistance and communication compounded the difficulties I faced. I attempted to seek help, waiting on the roadside for someone to assist me. After an hour, I managed to find a bus stop where two individuals initially tried to help but eventually left me alone.
The challenges persisted until I encountered an understanding elderly man who, along with a young boy, assisted me in using a phone to navigate and find the right bus to Bopodi. Despite reaching my destination safely, crossing the railway posed additional challenges, highlighting the vulnerability of deafblind individuals in unforeseen circumstances.
What is particularly troubling is the threat issued by the conductor to forcibly eject me from the bus. This act is reminiscent of the unjust treatment faced by Mahatma Gandhi in Africa, and it serves as a stark reminder that individuals with disabilities continue to face discrimination.
I urge you to consider this incident as a call to action. It is imperative that we advocate for the rights of deafblind individuals and demand respect from all quarters, including public transportation services. Furthermore, there is a pressing need for awareness and education on how to assist and communicate with individuals who have sensory impairments.
I kindly request your support in bringing this matter to the attention of relevant authorities and advocating for a more inclusive and understanding society. Together, we can work towards a future where every individual, regardless of their abilities, is treated with dignity and respect.
Yours sincerely,
Founder Director and Consultant
Society for the empowerment of the Deaf-Blind(SEDB)
Email: zamir@3.111.144.114
Mob: 9998751125(whatsapp message only)
Author: Sunil Abbas
Season’s Greetings and Support for the Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB)
Dear Friends and Collagues,
I hope this message finds you well and in good spirits. On behalf of the Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB), I extend warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2024!
We are grateful for the festive season, and it brings us joy to share our celebrations with you. This year, we received a wonderful and meaningful gift from Father Santa, making our Christmas day even more special.
As you may know, SEDB is a registered non-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals who are deafblind. Our team is passionate about creating opportunities for education, employment training, and establishing an effective office system. Your support plays a crucial role in helping us achieve these goals.
I am currently serving as a freelance consultant, and I recently shared my personal journey with you. Now, I reach out to request your assistance in the form of a small donation to SEDB. Your contribution will go a long way in encouraging and supporting our efforts.
Should you choose to contribute, please find the bank account details below:
• Account number 35733949762
• State Bank of India
•Branch: Fort Market (Mumbai)
•Address: 239, Roopam Hotel Building.
•IFSC Code: SBIN0005347
•MICR: 400002025
•UPI ID: societyforempower@sbi
Your generosity will help us continue our mission and make a positive impact on the lives of the deafblind community. We appreciate your consideration and support.
Kind regards,
Zamir Dhale
Founder Director and Consultant
Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB)
www.sedbindia.org
Heartfelt Gratitude for the SLDAA Conference
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the warm welcome and incredible support I received during the St. Louis Deaf Association Alumni (SLDAA) conference held in Bhubaneshwar’ Odisha from November 25th to 26th, 2023.
It was an honor to attend the conference as a special guest, and I was deeply moved by the generosity of spirit exhibited by everyone involved. My time at St. Louis School for the Deaf and Blind holds a special place in my heart, and being able to reconnect with my schoolmates and contribute to SLDAA was a truly meaningful experience.
I am grateful for the opportunity to donate Rs. 10,000 to SLDAA, a small token of appreciation for the invaluable lessons and friendships I gained during my time at St. Louis. The conference provided a platform for important discussions, and I was pleased to witness the enthusiasm and interest in learning tactile sign language among the attendees.
The General Board Meeting on the 25th, led by President Mr. John Kennedy, General Secretary Mr. Srinivasan, Joint Secretary Mr. Dhural, Treasurer Mr. Saji Mathew and Organized Secretary Mr. Niranjan Joshi, was enlightening. I appreciate the thoughtful discussions and the eagerness to embrace tactile sign language as a means of communication.
I was particularly heartened by the support of my friend Amit Samal. who, like me, understands the challenges faced by deafblind individuals. His presence and assistance during the conference made a significant difference in facilitating communication.
The presentations on the 26th were enlightening, especially Mr. Sorvojyoti’s insights and Mr. Subaji’s plans for the Hakky Hands School for the Deaf. Amit Samal’s quiz added a fun element to the event, showcasing the diverse talents within the community.
Meeting Mr. Shakti, a deaf-low vision individual, was inspiring. His journey towards independence, coupled with his interest in accessibility tools like the iPhone’s magnifier, exemplifies the resilience of individuals facing challenges. It was heartwarming to witness his ability to book a ride and travel independently.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to Social Justice’ Mr. Nk Mohanty’s Sr advocate odisha high court Cuttack for gracing the event as our Chief Guest and acknowledging the efforts of lecturers and winners. His interest in knowing of the SEDB and the promise of further support is truly appreciated.
The sightseeing on the 27th was a delightful experience, and Mr. Saji Mathew’s adept tactile signing made it possible for me to appreciate the beauty of Konark and the Buddha statues. The thoughtful gift of two frames from Mr. Abdul Easim Khan will serve as cherished mementos of this memorable occasion.
As I reflect on the conference, I am filled with gratitude for the hospitality, camaraderie, and the shared commitment to making the world more inclusive for deafblind individuals. I am confident that the SEDB will continue to thrive as a strong and proactive organization, thanks to the dedication of individuals like Mr. Zamir Dhale.
Once again, thank you to the SLDAA members for their warmth and support. I look forward to future collaborations and the growth of awareness and understanding for deafblind individuals in India.
Warm regards,
Lion Sunil Abbas
General Secretary
Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind(SEDB)
www.sedbindia.org
Empowering Deaf and Deafblind Women
Introduce
Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind(SEDB) India
Empowering Deaf and Deafblind Women: Bridging the Gap to Accessible Justice
Introduction:
Today marks International Disability Day, a day to reflect on the challenges faced by disabled individuals, particularly focusing on the hurdles that deaf and deafblind women encounter when seeking justice in cases of wrongdoing or mistreatment by their spouses. This discussion sheds light on the barriers preventing these women from filing complaints, such as a lack of awareness, communication challenges, and fear. It emphasizes the urgent need for increased awareness, sensitivity, and accessibility in legal avenues, aiming to empower these women to claim their rights.
Barriers to Justice:
Many disabled women, especially those who are deaf or deafblind, find themselves unable to file complaints against husbands who have wronged them. This could be due to husbands abandoning them due to their disabilities, neglecting their children’s education and living conditions, or displaying prejudice against daughters. The primary barriers preventing these women from seeking justice include a lack of awareness regarding their rights, communication difficulties, and the fear of the legal process.
Lack of Awareness and Accessibility:
The crucial issue lies in the lack of awareness and accessibility when it comes to filing complaints against spouses. Disabled women, unaware of their rights, often struggle to access legal services. This ignorance extends to the belief that legal services may not be free, leaving them hesitant to seek help due to potential financial constraints.
Empowering Through Awareness:
To address these challenges, it is imperative to create awareness and sensitize all courts and legal services about the specific rights and needs of deaf and deafblind women. District Legal Aid Services should play a crucial role in ensuring that information is disseminated effectively, ensuring that these women know how to access justice and what resources are available to them.
Breaking Communication Barriers:
Efforts must be directed towards breaking down communication barriers. Training programs should be initiated to educate legal professionals, police personnel, and support staff on effective communication methods with deaf and deafblind individuals. This includes the provision of sign language interpreters and other tools to facilitate communication.
Ensuring Free Legal Aid:
To dispel fears of financial constraints, it is essential to educate disabled women about the availability of free legal aid services. This information should be widely disseminated through community outreach programs, local organizations, and support networks.
Conclusion:
Empowering deaf and deafblind women involves dismantling the obstacles preventing them from seeking justice. By raising awareness, breaking communication barriers, and ensuring accessible legal aid services, we can create a more just and inclusive society. It is crucial to recognize and address the unique challenges faced by disabled women and work collectively to provide them with the support and resources needed to assert their rights.
Zamir Dhale’s Achievements
Achievements
It’s truly inspiring to see the remarkable achievements of Mr. Zamir Dhale and the Society For the Empowerment Of The Deaf-Blind (SEDB) in India. The organization’s commitment to empowering both Deaf and Deafblind individuals is commendable, and Mr. Zamir Dhale’s personal journey reflects his dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of people with visual and hearing challenges. Some key points and achievements highlighted in the provided information include:
Personal Achievements:
1.
Computer Accessibility Advocacy (2000):
•Fought for and obtained a computer with a Braille keyboard, showcasing early advocacy efforts for accessibility.
2.
Vocational Award (2006):
•Received the Vocational Award in 2006 from the Rotary Club of Bombay Pier for outstanding contributions to the betterment of the visually challenged.
3.
International Exposure (2002):
•Visited the Helen Keller National Centre in New York, USA, and participated in the American Association Of the Deafblind (AADB) in San Diego, California.
4.
Bollywood Movie “BLACK” (2003):
•Involved in the making of the Bollywood movie ‘BLACK’ in 2003, supporting lead actors in understanding and portraying characters with deafblindness.
5.
Advocacy Officer at Sense International India (2006):
•Joined Sense International India as an Advocacy Officer in 2006.
6.
National Trust Board Membership (2006):
•Became the first Board Member of the National Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation & Multiple Disabilities in 2006.
7.
Legal Guardianship Committee (2007):
•Selected as a member of the Local Level Committee in West Delhi to ensure legal guardianship under the National Trust Act.
8.
Accessibility Audit Team (2008):
•Selected as a member of the team for an accessibility audit in Delhi supported by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in 2008.
9.
Banking Accessibility (2009):
•Successfully obtained a bank account with ATM card, net banking, and a cheque book independently in 2009.
Recognition and Awards:
1.
International Exposure (2010):
•Visited the National Association of Deafblind in Uganda, East Africa, as the Udaan President on an exposure visit.
2.
Cavin Clavare Ability Mastery Award (2010):
•Received the Cavin Clavare Ability Mastery Award in 2010.
3.
Role Model Awards (2011):
•Honored with the Role Model Award by Retina India in 2011 and the Helen Keller Award by Chetana School, Kolhapur.
4.
Human Rights Council General Assembly Speech (2012):
•Invited to give a speech at a high level in the Human Rights Council General Assembly at the UN in Geneva in 2012.
5.
Best Worker and Vocational Worker Awards (2013-2014):
•Received the Award for the best worker from NASEH, Mumbai, in 2013, and the best vocational worker award from Rotary Club of Pune Central in 2014.
6.
Establishment of SEDB (2015):
•Founded the Society For the Empowerment Of The Deaf-Blind (SEDB) in 2015.
7.
International Representation (2019-2022):
•Represented SEDB at the UN CRPD, Geneva, in 2019 and was elected as the Asian Representative of the World Federation of the Deafblind (WFDB) in 2022.
Recent Achievements:
1.
2nd NCDB Conference (2023):
•Hosted the 2nd NCDB conference in 2023 in Bangalore, supported by Enable India and Chetana Trust, and funded by Allgeis.
2.
University Accessibility Advocacy (2023):
•Advocated for and convinced WOL Delhi University to provide tactile signing interpreters to help deafblind students during exams in a BA program.
Ongoing Commitment:
SEDB continues to be a pioneer in the field, with Mr. Zamir Dhale elected as the Asian Representative of the World Federation of the Deafblind, showcasing ongoing dedication to advocacy, empowerment, and inclusivity. The achievements listed reflect a journey of overcoming challenges, breaking barriers, and contributing significantly to the empowerment of the Deaf and Deafblind community in India.
Request for a Guest Lecture on Deafblind Advocacy and Empowerment
Dear Madam/Sir,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to introduce myself and share my story and work as a person with deafblindness. I believe that my experiences and journey can be inspiring and educational for the students at your institution.
I am a person with deafblindness, which means that I cannot see, hear, or speak. However, I have overcome these challenges to lead a fulfilling life. I rely on assistive devices such as braille technology to operate computers and phones. I am also an advocate for the Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB) in India, a registered Non-Profit Organization (NPO) that aims to empower deafblind individuals by providing better education, training in accessing assistive technology, employment opportunities, and advocacy for our rights against discrimination.
Currently, I am pursuing a BA program at SOL Delhi University and have been advocating for higher education accessibility for students with disabilities. I have also advocated for a tactile signing interpreter and writer to assist deafblind students during exams. Through my efforts, I have successfully persuaded the Vice Chancellor of Delhi University to provide free admission to me and other deaf students.
My journey began with the challenges of losing my vision at the age of 9. It was a difficult time, but my maternal grandfather’s determination led us to the Helen Keller Institution for the Deaf and Deafblind in Mumbai, founded by Beroz Vacha. This institution played a crucial role in my education and development. Subsequently, I advocated for the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) to provide admission for deafblind students and passed my 12th-grade exams. I also worked on promoting computer training for deafblind individuals and assisted in training actors like Amitabh Bachchan and Rani in braille, American Sign Language (ASL), and mobility skills for their film.
In 2006, I joined Sense International India as an advocacy Offier, and in 2015, I established my own NGO called the Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB). Through SEDB, I have encouraged deafblind individuals to join and become leaders and human rights activists in India.
I believe that my story can shed light on the rights and needs of deafblind individuals regarding education and accessibility to communication, as well as their abilities to work independently in India.
I kindly request that you consider inviting me to visit your institution and meet with the students. I would be honored to share my successful story and motivational insights in a lecture or session. I am confident that both teachers and students will benefit from learning about my journey and experiences.
Thank you for taking the time to consider my request and for your potential support. I look forward to your positive response. Please feel free to respond to this email to discuss further details.
Yours sincerely,
Founder Director and Consultant
SEDB India
Email: zamir@3.111.144.114
Asian Representative- World Federation of the Deafboind(WFDB)
Mob: 9998751125(whatsapp message only)
Experience of DeafBlind people regd. Public Transportation- Zamir SEDB
Dear Sisters, Brothers, Deaf and Deafblind Friends,
I hope this message finds you well. As the founder of the Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind and a disability rights activist, I wanted to share an update with all of you. I am deafblind, and recently, I went to Khadki Railway Station in Pune with my deaf interpreter to book a railway ticket.
During this process, we encountered a challenge as my deaf interpreter was not proficient in Marathi and English, only in Indian Sign Language. Despite this language barrier, I assisted him in filling out the reservation form, and it was a learning experience for both of us. I believe that empowering deaf interpreters with the skills to fill forms and book tickets can greatly benefit deafblind applicants in India.
Despite the difficulties, we faced in the queue, I urged my interpreter to approach the counter quickly. However, we encountered resistance, and it became necessary to seek assistance from the people around us. Deafblind individuals often find it challenging to stand in long queues, and I observed that even the Railway Police Force remained silent observers.
During the ticket booking process, I was asked for a smart card instead of a railway concession certificate. I explained that as a deafblind person, applying for it online posed significant challenges due to barriers and lack of accessibility for deafblind people in India.
In light of my experiences, I would like to propose the following recommendations:
1.
Accessibility in Education: The Government of India should provide accessibility for deaf and deafblind people, including tactile and non-tactile signing interpreters for education, especially in higher education.
2.
Interpreting Service Fee: The government should consider funding interpreting service fees and salaries to assist deaf applicants in filling forms and booking tickets for public transportation.
3.
Access to Healthcare: Government support should extend to providing interpreters for deaf and deafblind individuals when consulting civil hospitals, obtaining appropriate disability certificates, and applying for the Unique Disability ID (UDID).
4.
Job Opportunities: The government should facilitate the submission of job applications for deaf and deafblind applicants at both government and private companies, ensuring access to interviews.
I appreciate your patience in listening to my experiences and advocating for our rights through various channels, including social media. Your support is invaluable in raising awareness and fostering change.
Yours sincerely,
Zamir Dhale
Founder Director and Consultant
SEDB India
Asian Representative- World Federation of the deafblind(WFDB)
Heartfelt Diwali
Greetings from SEDB’s Deaf-Blind Team
Dear friends and Colleagues,
Wishing you a joyous and vibrant Diwali! May the warm glow of Diwali lights fill your lives with good health and happiness.
We, the members of the Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB), extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and encouragement towards the deafblind community. Your kindness has not only brightened our days but has also empowered us to face the challenges that come with being deafblind.
We appreciate the trust you’ve placed in us and are truly grateful for your continued support. Your generosity has made a significant impact on our journey, and we want to express our sincere thanks for always being there for us.
As we celebrate the festival of lights, may your life be illuminated with joy, prosperity, and smiles. May the spirit of Diwali inspire more individuals to extend a helping hand to those in need.
Once again, thank you for being a beacon of support for the deafblind community. Your kindness has made a lasting impression on our hearts.
Wishing you and your family a Diwali filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of cherished moments.
With sincere regards,
Zamir Dhale
Founder Director and Consultant
Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB)
Email: zamir@3.111.144.114
Mob: 9998751125(whatsapp message only)
www.sedbindia.org
Celebrating the 8th Anniversary of the Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB) in India
On October 22, 2023, the Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB) India celebrated its 8th anniversary. SEDB is a unique organization run entirely by deafblind volunteers and a deafblind team, and it was established on October 20, 2015, with its head office located in Nasik.
The founder of SEDB, Mr. Zamir Dhale, encouraged his deafblind team members to work independently, fostering their empowerment and self-reliance. The anniversary celebration took place at the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Loverlane Venue in Mazgaon, Byculla’ Mumbai East. It was a moment of pride and joy for Zamir as he acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the deafblind organisers and their supportive deaf team members.
During the event, Ms. Bushra Merchant, who is deaf-low vision, and Mr. Sunil Abbas, the General Secretary of SEDB, played pivotal roles in organising the celebration. Ms. Bushra Merchant, a strong leader of the deafblind women’s group, recognized the efforts of Ms. Varsha Pattem, who is also deafblind, Ms. Reshma Shirsat, a deaf individual, and Mr. Bhausaheb Jadhav, who is also deaf. They were commended for their hard work in securing a suitable venue and arranging lunch and high tea for the occasion.
Zamir expressed his gratitude by presenting a special flower to these dedicated individuals, emphasizing that they have played a crucial role in strengthening SEDB’s mission and raising awareness about the rights and needs of the deafblind community. He also highlighted the importance of deafblind people’s demands for better education, higher education, job opportunities, and financial assistance, urging the Government of India to understand and address these needs.
In addition to the anniversary celebration, the event also included the celebration of Ms. Anita’s birthday, who is a deafblind member of SEDB. Ms. Bushra brought a special cake as a thoughtful gift for SEDB, adding to the joyous occasion.
The event was made possible through the support and encouragement of well-wishers, donors, and both deaf and non-disabled friends and colleagues. The parents of deafblind children, including Ms. Geri from Usher India, also contributed to the success of this beautiful event.
To relive the memorable moments, you can watch the video and view the photos through the following link:
