The Moosa Slobodian Network

Bill C-15 and free literature for the blind

The hosts discussed the proposed repeal of the free literature for the blind provision under the Canada Post Corporation Act as part of Bill C-15.

• Details
  • Macara: Explained that Bill C-15 is a budget bill that includes a clause to repeal the free literature for the blind provision, which currently allows free shipping of braille books, tapes, CDs, and other accessible materials
  • Ali: Noted he first learned about this through a newsletter from Canadian Assistive Technology
  • Ali: Expressed that while not surprised by the proposal, he believes it’s wrong given the history of the service
  • Macara: Argued that the service is necessary, particularly for seniors and youth
  • Ali: Pointed out that the government seems to be looking at where they can cut costs
• Conclusion
  • Both hosts agreed the service is necessary and important for accessibility
  • They noted this would particularly impact seniors who rely on these materials
  • They discussed how technology is changing but traditional braille still has an important place

Braille vs. technology in education and accessibility

The hosts discussed the evolving role of braille in education and accessibility with the advancement of technology.

• Details
  • Macara: Mentioned that braille is still taught as a foundation in education for blind and visually impaired children
  • Ali: Questioned whether braille will remain relevant as technology evolves
  • Macara: Argued that braille will never completely disappear, as it serves purposes like public signage
  • Ali: Expressed uncertainty about braille’s future relevance, noting that education systems may increasingly favor technology due to cost considerations
  • Macara: Pointed out that technological devices also have high costs
• Conclusion
  • The hosts agreed they couldn’t predict exactly how the balance between braille and technology will evolve
  • They recognized cost factors affect both traditional braille materials and technological alternatives
  • They suggested inviting someone from the education system for the blind to discuss this topic in a future show

Sheryl Crow’s “Words Plus Music” on Audible

The hosts reviewed Sheryl Crow’s edition of “Words Plus Music” on Audible.

• Details
  • Ali: Noted that the book revealed aspects of Crow’s life beyond what people see in the public eye
  • Macara: Mentioned specific challenges Crow faced, including breast cancer and issues early in her career
  • Ali: Brought up Crow’s relationship with Lance Armstrong
  • Macara: Observed that Crow spent more time talking than performing in this edition, unlike Alanis Morissette’s edition which had more music
• Conclusion
  • The hosts appreciated hearing Crow’s personal story beyond her public persona
  • They noted the contrast between this edition and Alanis Morissette’s, with Crow focusing more on storytelling than music

Current reading updates

The hosts briefly discussed what they were currently reading.

• Details
  • Ali: Mentioned continuing to read Erin Davis’s book, though he had to stop at one point due to technical details that weren’t suitable for bedtime reading
  • Ali: Also noted reading “A Promised Land” by Barack Obama
  • Ali: Mentioned they had surpassed their reading goal of 25 books, estimating they were at around 28-30 books
• Conclusion
  • They agreed to make time for reading during the holidays
  • They confirmed “The Most Wonderful Tales of the Year” as next week’s book discussion

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