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Empowering Deafblind Advocacy: A Visit to Azam Campus by Zamir Dhale.

Posted on by Sunil Abbas

It details a visit by Zamir Dhale, the founder of the Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB), to Azam Campus in Pune, focusing on accessibility, technology rights for individuals with disabilities, and educational advocacy for deafblind individuals.

Empowering Deafblind Advocacy: A Visit to Azam Campus by Zamir Dhale
On the 5th of January 2024, Mr. Umesh Jadhav, a deaf individual, and Zamir Dhale, the founder of the Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB), undertook a significant visit to Azam Campus in Pune. Azam Campus, known for its vastness and prominence in Pune, hosts a diverse student body studying various subjects like Political Science, ICT, Accessible Technology Science, and more.
Zamir Dhale aimed to engage with students, teachers, and staff during his visit, sharing invaluable insights into accessibility and technology rights for individuals with disabilities. In a conference room, over 150 students witnessed Zamir communicate in sign language through a tactile signing interpreter, assisted by Umesh. Notably, Ms. Janhavi Joshi, a commendable individual, remotely provided interpretative assistance through video calls, connecting with Mrs. Samreen Shaikh, the Director of PAI ICT Academy at Azam Campus.
Janhavi, acknowledging the challenges faced by deafblind individuals, remotely guided Zamir on delivering lectures effectively. Leveraging technology, she facilitated online communication, setting up Zoom for Zamir to present as a deafblind lecturer. Umesh, through tactile signing, ensured seamless communication during the session.
Zamir interacted with the ICT Academy Team of Azam Campus, using WhatsApp to exchange messages. Addressing the audience in Indian Sign Language (ISL), Zamir shared insights into the lives of deafblind individuals in India, the mission of SEDB, and personal success stories. He also demonstrated a refreshable Braille Display Device, highlighting its role in communication via email and WhatsApp but underscored the challenge of accessing images and videos.
Zamir encouraged students to brainstorm solutions for enhancing future communication accessibility for deafblind individuals in India. Recognizing technology’s role as an enabler, he expressed gratitude for providing greater accessibility to deafblind individuals worldwide.
Emphasizing the importance of education in advocating for the rights and needs of deafblind individuals, Zamir called for the Indian government to officially recognize deafblindness as a distinct category under the Rights of Persons With Disabilities Act 2016.
Zamir concluded by expressing gratitude to Mr. Iqbal Sattar, the Chairman of Junnediya Society, Kudachi, for his support and encouragement. As a freelance consultant, Zamir extended an invitation to institutes across India to engage in similar insightful interactions, fostering a more inclusive educational environment.

 

Happy New Year 2024

Posted on by Sunil Abbas

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)

Zamir Dhale’s talk at the Action For Autism school

Posted on by Sunil Abbas

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

Posted on by Sunil Abbas

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)

Posted on by Sunil Abbas

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

Empowering Deaf and Deafblind Women

Posted on by Sunil Abbas

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

Posted on by Sunil Abbas

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

Posted on by Sunil Abbas

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

www.sedbindia.org

Email: zamir@sedbindia.org

Asian Representative- World Federation of the Deafboind(WFDB)

Mob: 9998751125(whatsapp message only)

Heartfelt Diwali

Posted on by Sunil Abbas

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@sedbindia.org
Mob: 9998751125(whatsapp message only)
www.sedbindia.org

Invitation to the Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind 8th Anniversary Celebration

Posted on by Sunil Abbas

Dear Friends and Collegues,
I hope this message finds you well. I am excited to share some wonderful news with you. The Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind (SEDB) and its dedicated team of deafblind individuals are preparing to celebrate our 8th anniversary. SEDB is a remarkable organization and a pioneering force in India, being the first Disabled People’s Organization run entirely by deafblind volunteers. Our mission is to empower deafblind individuals with better education, training, access to assistive technology, and employment opportunities.
In honor of this momentous occasion, we are planning to organize an anniversary event in Mumbai. We will secure a suitable venue and provide refreshments for our guests. We would be deeply honored to have you, our esteemed donors, supporters, well-wishers, and friends, join us in celebrating eight years of SEDB’s remarkable journey. Your presence and encouragement mean the world to us, as we rely on your support to continue our vital work.
We understand that this invitation comes on rather short notice due to the urgency of the event planning. We are in the process of finalizing the venue and will inform you of the precise location very soon. However, to ensure the success of this event, we kindly request your assistance by contributing a donation. We understand that not everyone can provide substantial funds, but any amount, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated and will make a significant difference.
You can make your contributions by transferring funds to SEDB’s bank account using the following details:
Society for the Empowerment of the Deaf-Blind
Account number 35733949762
State Bank of India
Branch : Fort Market (Mumbai)
239, Roopam Hotel Building.
IFSC Code : SBIN0005347
MICR : 400002025
UPI ID is societyforempower@sbi

We are deeply grateful for your consideration and support. We anticipate confirming the venue for the celebration by the 17th of October 2023. Your presence and support would make this occasion truly special and memorable.
Thank you for being a part of the SEDB family and for your unwavering support. We look forward to celebrating with you.
Warm regards,
Zamir Dhale
Founder Director and Consultant
SEDB India
www.sedbindia.org