Indianapolis- High school students from the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ISBVI) visited the Indiana Civil Rights Commission Wednesday October 6. The students met with ICRC employee and ISBVI alumni Diane Graves for a question and answer session.
"I was contacted by the school several years ago to meet with students to discuss possible career paths," said Graves. "This past summer the school contacted State Personnel and asked if I could come speak at the school."
Following their meeting at ISBVI, school officials once again contacted Graves. This time it was to see if they could visit her and see where she works.
"The meeting went really well over the summer, added Graves. I was happy to invite them to visit. It gives me an opportunity to share with them what I do."
Graves began the meeting by giving an overview of what the Indiana Civil Rights Commission does followed by explaining her daily responsibilities. Graves has been employed with the ICRC for more than 20 years and is an original member of the mediation unit established in 1997.
Students enjoyed refreshments and were then introduced to Executive Director Jamal L. Smith. The students then asked questions about Diane and the alternative techniques to working and mobility she utilizes, her advice and the Indiana Civil Rights Commission.
"If I could give just one piece of advice it would be to get more education," said Graves. "You're going to have to be better than those that are not visually impaired. Although we are equal, discrimination still exists."
The students concluded their visit with a tour of the State House.
The Indiana Civil Rights Commission enforces the Indiana civil rights laws and provides quality education and services to the public in an effort to ensure equal opportunity for all Hoosiers and visitors to the State of Indiana.
To view pictures from the visit click here