At Daily 27, we are committed to ensuring that all our readers have access to the best evidence and resources. On this World Braille Day, celebrated annually since 2019, we highlight the significance of braille as a powerful tool for communication and the realization of human rights for people blindness and low vision or visual impairment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 285 million people worldwide experience some form of visual impairment, with 39 million living with blindness and 246 million having low vision. For these individuals, braille is more than just a method of reading and writing; it is a gateway to education, independence, and full participation in society.
Braille is a tactile writing system that allows blind and visually impaired people to read and write through touch. It is not a language, but a universal code adapted to various languages. Each letter in braille corresponds to a letter in print, with words retaining the same length in both formats. This adaptability makes it an indispensable tool for education and communication. The system was invented by Louis Braille, born in Coupvray, France, in 1809. Blinded at a young age, Braille sought to create a writing system that would enable blind individuals to access written information. His innovative method, developed in the early 19th century, uses cells with six raised dots to represent letters, numbers, punctuation, and even complex symbols such as musical notation and mathematical formulas.
Braille’s method revolutionized education for the blind, and today, it remains the most widely used tactile reading system globally. Its universality and versatility have made it a cornerstone of accessibility, allowing blind and visually impaired individuals to pursue academic, professional, and creative endeavors. World Braille Day serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring that everyone can access information and communication. In a world increasingly reliant on digital technologies, it is crucial to promote accessible formats for people with disabilities. We must continue working toward a world where inclusivity is the norm.
At Daily 27, we celebrate braille as a symbol of empowerment and equality. On this day, we encourage everyone to recognize the impact of accessible communication and advocate for the rights of people with disabilities.
Assistant Lecturer at the University of the Basque Country