On the occasion of World Braille Day, observed annually on January 4th, the Muslim Council of Elders has shed light on the transformative role of Braille in promoting inclusion and empowering persons with visual impairments. Under the guidance of His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, the Council reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive society where every individual can contribute their talents and skills to community and national development.
What is Braille?
For those unfamiliar with it, Braille is a tactile writing and reading system used by individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Invented by Louis Braille in the 19th century, the system uses patterns of raised dots to represent letters, numbers, and punctuation marks. These dots are read by touch, allowing people with visual impairments to access written information and communicate effectively. Braille serves as a powerful tool for literacy, education, and independence, enabling individuals to engage fully with the world around them.
Braille as a Gateway to Knowledge and Inclusion
The Muslim Council of Elders emphasized that Braille is more than just a tool for reading—it is a bridge to knowledge, learning, and societal integration. By equipping persons with visual impairments to access information, Braille empowers them to excel in various fields, from philosophy to management and the humanities. The Council celebrated the success stories of visually impaired individuals throughout history, particularly in Islamic culture, as examples of determination and resilience.
Leveraging Technology to Enhance Inclusion
In its statement, the Council called for the integration of modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, to expand the benefits of Braille. Such innovations could revolutionize how visually impaired individuals interact with their environments, making reading, learning, and societal engagement more accessible than ever. This forward-thinking approach underscores the Council’s vision of an inclusive world driven by technological advancements.
Compassion and Support in Islamic Teachings
Highlighting the deep compassion in Islamic teachings for people of determination, the Muslim Council of Elders advocated for measures that simplify the lives of persons with visual impairments. The statement emphasized the spiritual and societal value Islam places on inclusivity, ensuring that all individuals are given their rightful place in society. The Council reminded us of the rewards promised to those who uphold these values of support and integration.
Promoting Tolerance and Dialogue Through Braille
The Council has actively worked to make Braille a medium for promoting the values of tolerance, peace, and coexistence. In collaboration with the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, the Council translated the historic Document on Human Fraternity into Braille in Arabic, English, and Italian. This initiative ensures that the groundbreaking document, signed in Abu Dhabi by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb and His Holiness Pope Francis in 2019, reaches and inspires visually impaired individuals worldwide.
A Call to Action
The Muslim Council of Elders’ message on World Braille Day is a powerful reminder that inclusion is not just a moral obligation but also a means to unlock the potential of every individual. By advancing Braille and embracing technology, society can ensure that persons with visual impairments are not left behind but are celebrated as equal contributors to a better future.
