Dear Friends and Colleagues,
As we bid farewell to the sunset of 2023 and welcome the dawn of a new year, the deafblind team at the Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB) extends warm wishes to you for a joyous New Year in 2024!
Reflecting upon the past year, we acknowledge the lessons learned from our mistakes. We encountered challenges within our families and faced issues in official matters that led to moments of anger, arguments, and the spreading of negative gossip. Despite these difficulties, we recognize the need for personal growth and transformation. As we approach the new year, we strive to cleanse our minds with the metaphorical brush of introspection, seeking a fresh start.
In the spirit of love and understanding, we express affection for one another within our community. Love holds the key to building trust, fostering belief in each other, and establishing meaningful connections. Whether with family, friends, or colleagues, the importance of working together cannot be overstated. Together, we can contribute to the growth of organizations and create a brighter life for all.
Let us embrace the opportunity to leave behind the challenges of the past, forgive each other, and move forward hand in hand. May the coming year be one of collaboration, progress, and continued success.
Wishing you a New Year filled with love, positivity, and shared achievements.
Yours sincerely,
Zamir Dhale
Founder Director and Consultant
Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB)
www.sedbindia.org
Email: zamir@sedbindia.org
Mob: 9998751125(whatsapp message only)
Month: December 2023
Zamir Dhale’s talk at the Action For Autism school
It’s wonderful to hear about Mr. Zamir Dhale’s talk at the Action For Autism school and the positive impact it had on the participants. His journey, experiences, and challenges must have provided valuable insights for the team members and young adults training to be special educators. The fact that around 50 people attended the talk reflects the importance and interest in understanding the needs of deafblind individuals.
The emphasis on the importance of sign language for supporting deafblind individuals is crucial, and it’s great that the participants learned this during the session. Mr. Zamir Dhale’s courage and determination serve as an inspiration to everyone, showcasing that advocacy for rights is possible despite challenges.
It’s heartening to know that the students enjoyed learning from Mr. Zamir Dhale and found his talk insightful and fun. The inclusion of jokes and personal anecdotes, such as those about his family, adds a personal touch and helps break down barriers. Laughter is a powerful way to connect with people, and it’s fantastic that Mr. Zamir’s humor brought joy to the audience.
The mention of Ms. Manisha and Shivoy providing support as tactile signing interpreters highlights the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in such events. Their assistance ensured effective communication, allowing everyone to fully engage and benefit from the talk.
Overall, it sounds like Mr. Zamir Dhale’s talk was a meaningful and enjoyable experience for all involved, contributing to a better understanding of the challenges faced by deafblind individuals and the importance of inclusive communication.
Urgent Advocacy for Deafblind Rights and Respectful Treatment
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@sedbindia.org
Mob: 9998751125(whatsapp message only)
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.
