About Braille Literacy Canada

About BLC

Braille Literacy Canada (formed in 1990 as the Canadian Braille Authority) is dedicated to the promotion of braille as the primary medium of literacy for those who are blind or visually impaired.

Led by a volunteer board of directors, BLC’s membership is comprised of organizations and companies, educators, braille transcribers and proofreaders, braille producers, parents and family members of braille users, and braille readers themselves.

BLC is recognized by the International Council on English Braille (ICEB) as the authority for the development, adoption, and implementation of standards relating to (English) braille codes in Canada.

Our Mission

Recognized as the Canadian Braille Authority, Braille Literacy Canada educates and advocates for equitable and timely access to high-quality braille for those who are blind, DeafBlind, or who have low vision.

Our Vision

We believe in a world where braille is universally acknowledged, respected, accessible, and integrated into every facet of society.

Our Core Values

  1. Empowerment: We provide leadership, advocacy, tools, and resources to strengthen equitable access to braille literacy across Canada, empowering individuals to navigate the world with confidence.
  2. Collaboration: We actively partner with individuals, organizations, and communities to advance braille literacy, sharing knowledge and resources to create meaningful impact.
  3. Community: We believe in the power of shared experiences, strong connections, and collective action to strengthen braille literacy across Canada.
  4. Innovation: We embrace new ideas, technologies, and approaches that break down barriers, improve accessibility, and drive the advancement of braille.

2025-2028 Strategic Plan

As a part of our 2025-2028 strategic plan, Braille Literacy Canada has identified the following four program areas as priorities:

  1. Ensuring the Sustainability of Braille Literacy Canada for Future Generations: We are committed to securing the long-term sustainability of Braille Literacy Canada, ensuring that future generations have access to braille literacy for independence and inclusion. We will achieve this by maintaining financial stability, cultivating strong relationships with key founders and donors, expanding fundraising efforts, and establishing a lasting legacy giving program. Through strategic growth in memberships, corporate partnerships, and philanthropic contributions, we will build a resilient foundation for Braille Literacy Canada.
  2. Expanding Braille Awareness and Advocacy across Canada: Braille Literacy Canada is dedicated to increasing awareness and advocacy for braille as a fundamental tool for literacy, independence, and inclusion. We aim to empower individuals, educators, and organizations by strengthening public awareness, providing accessible resources, and influencing policy to ensure equitable access to braille. Through partnerships, innovative outreach, and advocacy, we will challenge misconceptions, remove barriers, and promote the vital role of braille in education, employment, and daily life.
  3. Strengthening Engagement to Amplify Impact: We are committed to fostering meaningful engagement by enhancing organizational capacity, broadening representation, and deepening partnerships. Through our strategic initiatives, we will strengthen committees, expand outreach, and build collaborations to support braille literacy and advocacy across Canada. This approach will enhance our ability to support braille literacy awareness and advocacy, and ensure that BLC remains relevant and impactful for generations to come.
  4. Enhancing Consistency and Quality of Braille Materials: We are committed to advocating for the ongoing production of high-quality braille—both in hard copy and digital formats—delivered in the ways that best meet the evolving needs of readers. By supporting the adoption of emerging standards, we aim to enhance accessibility and enrich the reading experience for braille users across Canada.

Download our 2025 - 2028 Strategic Plan (MS Word)

Learn more about Braille Literacy Canada