Blindness and Employment: Busting the Myth that Blind People Can’t Work in Most Jobs

For too long, society has underestimated the capabilities of blind and visually impaired individuals in the workforce. A persistent myth suggests that blindness inherently limits a person’s ability to perform most jobs. But the truth tells a different, more empowering story—one filled with resilience, innovation, and undeniable success.

The Myth of Inability

Blindness is often equated with dependency or reduced productivity. However, this misconception ignores the incredible adaptability of blind individuals and the wide range of assistive technologies available today. From screen readers and Braille displays to smartphone apps and workplace accommodations, these tools level the playing field across industries—from tech and education to law and the arts.

Real People, Real Success

1. Haben Girma – Advocate, Lawyer, Speaker

Born deafblind, Haben Girma became the first deafblind graduate of Harvard Law School. She is now a renowned disability rights advocate, pushing for inclusive practices in education and employment. Girma’s work has proven that communication and access—not vision—determine capability.

2. Erik Weihenmayer – Adventurer and Motivational Speaker

Erik Weihenmayer lost his vision at age 13 but didn’t let that stop him from living an extraordinary life. He became the first blind person to summit Mount Everest and has since founded No Barriers, an organization helping people overcome challenges to lead fulfilling lives. His story is a testament to the fact that blindness is not a barrier to ambition or achievement.

3. Christine Ha – Chef and Restauranteur

Christine Ha, who is visually impaired due to an autoimmune condition, rose to fame as the winner of MasterChef U.S. Season 3. Her culinary talent and perseverance won over judges and audiences alike. She now runs her own restaurant and continues to prove that blindness is no match for creativity and skill.

4. Isaac Lidsky – Entrepreneur and Former Child Actor

Best known in his youth for a role on Saved by the Bell: The New Class, Isaac Lidsky lost his sight in his twenties due to retinitis pigmentosa. Undeterred, he became a Harvard-educated attorney, Supreme Court clerk, and later a successful CEO. His book Eyes Wide Open is a powerful narrative about redefining reality and success.

Breaking Barriers in the Workplace

Blind professionals work in an impressive variety of fields:

• Technology: Software developers use screen readers and voice-input tools.

• Law and Advocacy: Blind attorneys like Girma challenge discrimination through legal reform.

• Education: Blind teachers and professors shape minds in classrooms and online platforms.

• Entrepreneurship: Many run their own businesses, offering services or products across sectors.

Employers are slowly but surely recognizing the value of diverse abilities. AEBC and many other organizations like us, advocate for inclusive hiring, and provide volunteer and leadership opportunities that can lead to gainful, meaningful employment.

Conclusion: Rewriting the Narrative

The narrative around blindness and employment is changing—thanks to advancements in technology, evolving public attitudes, and the bold individuals who refuse to be defined by disability. It’s not about what blind people can’t do—it’s about what they are doing every day in boardrooms, classrooms, workplaces, and beyond.

By sharing these stories, we can move from misconception to understanding and finally, to action—making employment accessible and equitable for all.