[Nfbnet-members-list] Statement from the National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota on this Weekend's Deplorable Violence

[David Andrews]

From:  Corbb O'Connor, President, NFB of Minnesota


Members and Friends,

The National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota today released the 
following statement:

The National Federation of the Blind of Minnesota mourns the tragic 
loss of State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark. As 
a gifted, dedicated public servant, Representative Hortman was an 
early supporter of our efforts to ensure that materials in higher 
education be made available in accessible formats. In her role as 
Speaker of the House, Representative Hortman effectively helped to 
usher important legislation toward passage that benefited blind 
Minnesotans. Her leadership helped make real progress in the fight 
for equality and opportunity for people with disabilities. Her legacy 
will live on in the laws she helped shape and the lives she touched.

We also extend our heartfelt wishes for a full and swift recovery to 
Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette. He, too, has served as a 
vocal supporter of the blind community. Senator Hoffman most recently 
partnered with us to sponsor vital legislation protecting the rights 
of disabled parents in Minnesota. We are keeping them and their 
family in our thoughts during this difficult time.

We condemn violence and intimidation in all forms and believe they 
have no place in our society especially in matters of political 
discourse. Acts of violence undermine the values of democracy, 
respect, and inclusion that underpin our mission.

We stand in solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy and 
reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive, respectful community.

Sincerely,

Corbb O'Connor, President, on behalf of the National Federation of 
the Blind of Minnesota