White Canes Take Atlanta: A Historic HBCU Accessibility Event
Release Date: 10/18/2026
White Canes Take Atlanta: A Historic HBCU Accessibility Event
White Canes Connect
What happens when blind Black leaders bring accessibility advocacy to one of the biggest celebrations of HBCU culture and football? In Episode 161 of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein welcome Shawn Callaway and Audrey Lester to discuss the inaugural Accessibility Symposium organized by the National Organization of Blind Black Leaders (NOBBL), its HBCU Committee, and the Blind Greek and Masonic Group. Taking place December 10–13, 2026, in Atlanta, the event combines important conversations about inclusion with the excitement of the Cricket Celebration Bowl. Shawn...
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info_outlineWhat happens when blind Black leaders bring accessibility advocacy to one of the biggest celebrations of HBCU culture and football? In Episode 161 of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein welcome Shawn Callaway and Audrey Lester to discuss the inaugural Accessibility Symposium organized by the National Organization of Blind Black Leaders (NOBBL), its HBCU Committee, and the Blind Greek and Masonic Group. Taking place December 10–13, 2026, in Atlanta, the event combines important conversations about inclusion with the excitement of the Cricket Celebration Bowl.
Shawn explains why representation matters, especially in spaces where blind people have historically been overlooked. The symposium at Morehouse College will bring together members of historically Black colleges and universities, Greek-letter organizations, and the blindness community. Audrey, a Howard University graduate and clinical social worker, shares her experiences navigating college and building a professional career. Her story includes applying for 86 jobs and attending approximately 15 interviews before receiving her first job offer.
But this weekend is about more than accessibility discussions. Attendees will enjoy networking, fellowship, and a group outing to the Celebration Bowl, proudly representing their HBCUs, fraternities, sororities, and the blind community. Shawn and Audrey share their hopes for the event, how supporters can get involved, and why creating inclusive spaces benefits everyone.
Top Takeaways
- Representation matters: Blind Black people deserve to be included in conversations about education, employment, culture, and community leadership.
- Accessibility begins with self-advocacy: Audrey explains why understanding your needs and requesting accommodations is essential for success in college and the workplace.
- Persistence opens doors: Audrey's journey through 86 job applications demonstrates the challenges blind professionals can face and the importance of perseverance.
- Community creates opportunities: The symposium brings together the NFB, HBCU graduates, Greek-letter organizations, and Masonic groups to build relationships and encourage greater inclusion.
What You'll Learn
- Why NOBBL chose Celebration Bowl weekend for its first Accessibility Symposium.
- What attendees can expect at Morehouse College and throughout the four-day gathering.
- How Audrey navigated Howard University, graduate school, and her transition into employment.
- Why blind people must be represented within HBCU, Greek-letter, and Masonic communities.
- How Federation members and supporters can participate, provide financial assistance, and help expand the event's impact.
Event Information
NOBBL Accessibility Symposium and Celebration Bowl Weekend
Dates: December 10–13, 2026
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Symposium: Friday, December 11, at Morehouse College
Celebration Bowl: Saturday, December 12
Event costs discussed in the episode:
- Welcome reception: Free
- Accessibility Symposium: $30
- Sunday brunch: $55
- Celebration Bowl tickets: Separate purchase
- Host hotel, Origin Atlanta, a Wyndham Hotel: Group rate of $159 per night
For registration details, visit https://blackleaders.nfb.org .
For questions about the event or NOBBL, email [email protected].
Connect with White Canes Connect
We'd love to hear whether you're planning to attend the symposium or what inclusion in your community means to you.
Call: 267-338-4495. Leave a message of up to three minutes, including your name and town.
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.WhiteCanesConnect.com