Washington Seminar 2024

Introduction to Washington Seminar

Every year, the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) hosts an influential gathering in Washington, D.C., known as the Washington Seminar. This pivotal event brings together members of the NFB to delve into and champion legislative measures aimed at enhancing the quality of life for blind individuals across America.

Focus on Legislative Initiatives

Each year, the seminar focuses on approximately three vital legislative initiatives. These initiatives, the cornerstone of the Washington Seminar, reflect the NFB’s official stance as determined during their national convention. The scope of these initiatives is broad, covering vital areas such as civil rights, educational services, and programs, employment rehabilitation for the blind, management of vending facilities by blind individuals on public properties, specialized library services for the visually impaired, structuring and funding of federal programs, and aspects of Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income programs. Additionally, they address other relevant and pressing issues.

History and Scale of the Event

The inaugural Washington Seminar was held in 1973. Since then, it has grown significantly in scale and impact. Today, the event typically sees over five hundred attendees from all fifty states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, making it a significant event in the NFB calendar.

Upcoming Seminar Details

The upcoming Washington Seminar is scheduled from Monday, January 29, to Thursday, February 1, 2024. It will be held at the Holiday Inn Washington Capitol – National Mall, 550 C Street, SW, Washington, DC 20024. This seminar promises to be a dynamic platform for discussion, learning, and advocacy, continuing the NFB’s long-standing tradition of striving for positive change and empowerment for the blind community.

Washington Seminar Schedule of Events

Adding to the excitement of the Washington Seminar, we have a detailed schedule of key events:

Great Gathering-In – Monday, January 29, 2024

The Washington Seminar starts with the much-anticipated Great Gathering-In, marking the beginning of this impactful event. Scheduled for Monday afternoon, it begins at 5:00 p.m. E.T. It concludes at 7:00 p.m. E.T. We invite you to join us virtually on Zoom for this opening session. The meeting can be accessed using the ID 981 5655 6455. For easy access via mobile, dial +13017158592,,98156556455# (Washington DC) or +13052241968,,98156556455# (U.S.).

2024 Washington Seminar Priorities

2024 Legislative Agenda and Fact Sheets

Additional Legislative Concerns of Blind Americans for the 118th Congress

Learn more on this page.

Congressional Reception – Tuesday, January 30, 2024

On Tuesday, the National Federation of the Blind extends a warm invitation to members of Congress and their staff to join us at the Cannon Caucus Room in the Cannon House Office Building. From 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., this reception offers a unique opportunity for lawmakers to engage with Federationists. While enjoying light refreshments, discussions will focus on our legislative priorities for the Second Session of the 118th Congress.

Congressional Appointments – Tuesday, January 30 to Thursday, February 1, 2024

We encourage scheduling Congressional appointments from Tuesday through Thursday. These meetings are a cornerstone of the Washington Seminar, allowing direct dialogue and advocacy with legislators.

The NFB’s Commitment

The National Federation of the Blind is more than an organization; it’s a vibrant community committed to the aspirations and achievements of the nation’s blind population. Our collective efforts are dedicated to ensuring that blind individuals lead the lives they envision for themselves. The Washington Seminar is a testament to this commitment, fostering an environment of learning, advocacy, and community building.