as individuals, not defined by a charitable organization who promotes itself at our expense. Recommendations for Kick-starting Change It is time for the CNIB and other relevant institutions to relinquish control over the lives of blind citizens. The Canadian government could facilitate that by abolishing blind charities and replacing them with comprehensive services for blind people. The Canadian government could introduce a federal living allowance based solely on the characteristic of blindness. This allowance would replace the current system which destroys initiative and is counter-productive because it penalizes people who want to utilize their intelligence, creativity and skills and rewards the people who, through demeaning means tests, demonstrate their incapacity. The Canadian government could promote a nationwide public relations campaign to create a new image of blind people who "can do," replacing the image of blind people who "can't do." This media blitz, which would employ blind Canadians in every aspect of the campaign, would be highlighted by images of blind people working, traveling and generally doing all manner of activities that able-bodied citizens can. The Canadian government could ensure that there are national educational standards that promote fluency in Braille reading, writing and mathematical skills for blind people and also ensure access to any and all adaptive equipment that facilitates this goal. The Canadian government could establish regional training facilities that would offer a variety of life skills that are necessary for blind citizens to function effectively in all aspects of society, giving us the tools to become independent