NASSAU, BAHAMAS — While families and friends gathered for good times on Thanksgiving day, members of the Bahamas Alliance for the Blind and Visually Impaired (BABVI) were giving thanks for the kindness shown to them by Member of Parliament for Nassau Village Jamahl Strachan, who helped make the season even more special.
He held a pre-Thanksgiving day event in their honor, taking the time to get to know members and show some love. Members were treated to a full thanksgiving meal with dessert at his Nassau Village constituency office on Soldier Road.
In addition to a hearty meal and good conversation, Strachan made a donation to BABVI towards their continuing efforts to empower blind and visually impaired members of society.
“It was indeed a pleasure to celebrate a pre-Thanksgiving dinner with the members of BABVI,” Strachan said.
“I strongly believe that inclusion is needed. The civil rights of the disabled should not be impeded on. I will continue to advocate for programs which will enable the members to cultivate their skills and abilities.
“The right to employment without prejudice, accessible transportation and housing is for all in this great Commonwealth.
“I am steadfast in my commitment to the disabled community. It is my hope that the donation given will aid in some capacity for the betterment of the organization.”
Robertha Johnson, BABVI president, thanked Strachan for his kind gesture and the donation, which she said would assist in their efforts to make life easier for their members.
BABVI teaches Braille reading to those who need it; assists with software on the phone and computer to make life easier for blind and visually impaired; and assists with transportation, among other things.
Strachan said: “In this ‘new day’, the governor general expounded upon our government’s plan to increase the benefits for persons with disabilities and ensure that the provisions of the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities) Act are fully implemented and enforced.
“Understanding the seriousness of this pronouncement and the need to impact Bahamians at all levels, I immediately reached out to a visually impaired constituent and pledged my support toward ensuring the inclusion of all Nassau Villagers in the constituency development process.
“During my canvassing, I was surprised to find out the large number of persons living with disabilities in the constituency, and promised that if I were to be given the opportunity to represent them, I would ensure that their voices be heard.
“This small gesture is simply the beginning of removing the stigma of living with disabilities in The Bahamas, especially in densely populated urban areas like the beautiful constituency of Nassau Village, where I’m proud to call my dear home.”
Johnson said BABVI always welcomes the assistance of individuals, organizations and companies willing to partner with them as they seek to preserve vision, prevent blindness and create opportunities for people whose sight cannot be restored.
The organization can be reached at 80-BABVI (802-2284) or babvi.101@gmail.com, or by visiting their Facebook page at BABVI Bahamas.
