Blind LGBT Pride International (BPI) Affirms Commitment to Human Rights by Opting Out of Jacksonville Convention
The American Council of the Blind (ACB), the parent organization of BPI, will hold their annual conference and convention in Jacksonville, FL, in July 2024. Amid Florida’s divisive and hostile political climate towards marginalized groups, including the LGBTQ+ community, BPI initially sought to collaborate with ACB to ensure a safe and inclusive convention experience. Read more
Mission
Our mission is to promote the awareness, inclusion, and well-being of blind and vision impaired LGBT people through education, advocacy, and peer-support.
About Us
In 1999, a small group of individuals seeking connection and community met at the American Council of the Blind convention in Los Angeles.
They met in small conference rooms and discussed life, dating, and sight loss. For many, it was the first time an organized mingling of glbtq visually impaired individuals was purposefully assembled. The energy from this group culminated in a planning process that resulted in the formation of Blind Friends of Lesbians and Gays, (BFLAG). The original concept was to build on the community and support provided via parents and friends of lesbian and gay groups across the country.
BFLAG applied for an official affiliate status with the American Council of the Blind, and the request was granted in 2000.
Ultimately, BFLAG’s name was officially changed to Blind LGBT Pride International (BPI) in 2009.
The initial small group assembled in 1999 has now expanded to over 120 members. The same dedication and determination to provide opportunities for socialization, networking and support that spurred the creation of our organization is vital today. We are still the only official affiliate of any blindness consumer organization focused on the intersection of visual impairment and sexual orientation. Through email lists, virtual townhall conversations and an annual gathering at the American Council of the Blind convention, we reach out and support each other. Please join us; we all matter!
Blind LGBT Pride International (BPI) Important Links
Constitution and Bylaws – Review our governing documents.
Become a Member – Take the next step … Join BPI!