Activists protest proposed layoffs at blindness organization in Hawaii

From KHON-TV in Honolulu:

Hawaii's blind and visually impaired took to the streets Oct. 15 for freedom and independence.

But, what they were really marching for was help. The program many of them rely on most, Ho'opono, is on the state's layoff chopping block.

"We cannot afford to loose anyone in our school right now," said Douglas Moises, Ho'opono student.

The Department of Human Services plans to abolish 4 positions under the Ho'opono program and eliminate another 8 positions as part of a reduction in force. 12 positions in all. Including a braille teacher, counselor, and employment specialist.

"Knowing Braille, knowing how to use a cane are things not everyone can teach and that's one thing we can do," said Brook Sexton, Ho'opono Orientation and Mobility Specialist.

Ho'opono is one of the most successful programs for the visually impaired in the country. Helping students learn to become independent and gainfully employed. With graduates securing jobs that pay on average 20-dollars an hour.

"The goal for every blind person is to be employed," said Virgil Stinnette, National Federation of the Blind, Hawaii chapter President. "I myself am self-employed and have 39 employees."

Supporters of the program are concerned that cutting key positions, would instead force many who are blind to rely on state assistance.

"People are going to be more dependent on the system, they're not going to have opportunity to live the lives they want to live," said Sexton.

"I just can't see losing anyone and things being the same and getting all that we're getting out of it without everyone there right now," said Moises.

House and Senate committees have met with DHS and Ho'opono administrators to see if positions within the program can be saved.

Lawmakers are considering sending a formal letter to Governor Lingle asking her to stop these layoffs within Ho'opono.