Braille, the tactile reading and writing method used by millions of people with impaired vision has its own holiday. This communication system is certainly worth celebrating as it improves everyday life for many. However, the history of these little raised dots representing the letters of the alphabet may surprise you.
Braille was not originally designed as a tool for the visually impaired. Instead, the system of touch reading and writing began as a French Military combat code system. According to historians, a French soldier in Napoleon Bonaparte’s army created Night Writing as a way for soldiers to communicate silently at night and without the use of lamps.
The system that was originally developed to save lives on the battle field in the early 1800’s later evolved into a means of providing the blind an opportunity to read and write by another Frenchman named Louis Braille. Braille modified the combat communication system by simplifying it so that a person could move more rapidly from one digit to the next.
There are several ways for those of every sight ability to celebrate World Braille Day on January 4th, 2021! The day reminds all of us how important inclusion and accessibility is for the blind or visually impaired. There are about 36 million blind people in the world and that number is expected to rise dramatically in the future.
Fortunately, technological advances have helped to improve the lives of the visually impaired and blind, but no invention has made a greater impact than Louis Braille’s system. To celebrate World Braille Day, you and your family can go on a Braille scavenger hunt. How many locations can you spot the code that you would otherwise overlook?
Spend time discussing how those who get by everyday through the use of Braille would not be able to enjoy many freedoms without it. Learning firsthand about Braille from someone who regularly makes use of it is an even better way to acknowledge World Braille Day.
World Braille Day is also an opportunity to remember to schedule your next eye exam with a licensed ophthalmologist at your local vision care center. Residents in the Upstate area can call Palmetto Eye & Laser Center at 864-583-6381 or use our online contact form to request more information on scheduling an appointment.
