2024 Advocacy Day

Public policy advocacy has been a cornerstone of the Council’s mission since its founding in 1952. But you don’t have to be a professional advocate to be an effective voice for change! There are ordinary folks all over the state doing it successfully, especially at the local level in their own communities.
On Thursday May 16, 2024, the Council presented a panel discussion, moderated by Executive Director Denise Jess, featuring three people from around the state living with vision loss. Each panelist is at a different stage in their advocacy journey, and each has a story to tell about their success as a changemaker.
Panelists:
Liz Fryseth of La Crosse has been advocating at the local level for many years on guide dog access, pedestrian safety and emergency preparedness.
Brent Goodman of Rhinelander is a Council board member who facilitates a vision loss support group and is newer to advocacy.
Wendi Dwyer of Madison is a long-time advocate though newer to advocating in the blind and low vision community on issues such as pedestrian safety and guide dog access.