For more than 30 years, Curtis Chong has worked to improve the ability of blind people to use computers and other technologies. He has been active in the National Federation of the Blind since 1969, promoting civil rights and improved services for blind people in Hawaii, California, Minnesota, Maryland, Iowa, New Mexico, and Colorado.

Before entering the field of work with the blind, Curtis spent 20 years working in mainstream information technology. He programmed his first mainframe computer as early as 1972, at a time when computers did not talk to the blind. As a designer/consultant at American Express Financial Services (now Ameriprise), he provided technical support for mainframe database and communications software, keeping systems running for thousands of sighted coworkers within the company. From 1997-2002, Curtis worked as the Director of Technology for the National Federation of the Blind supporting internal information technology for the Federation and its external programs to improve nonvisual access technology for the blind in several different areas.

From October 1998 through April 1999, Curtis served as a member of the Electronic Information and Technology Access Advisory Committee of the U.S. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board; this group prepared the preliminary standards which were later used by the Access Board to implement Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. Curtis also served on a second Access Board committee, appointed ten years later, which developed updated technical standards for Section 508; these standards have not yet been incorporated into published federal rules.

Curtis was very active in getting voting ballots prepared for blind voters.  Last year was the first year after a long journey towards blind and others with disabilities having the opportunity to vote without assistance. The election last year was the first in Colorado where voters who are blind don’t have to get a ride to a polling place or sacrifice secrecy. They can do what the rest of us take for granted – vote in private, at home. Chong and other members of the National Federation of the Blind of Colorado helped pass a law that required the Secretary of State to design an interactive ballot that works with any assistive technology.  Chong says he’s voted in every election since 1972, but this last one was the most significant for him, “Because I’m going to do everything here on my own, and I’m going to do it mostly from my home.”

Curtis has a great sense of humor and shared many stories of his life and experiences.  Thanks Curtis for your time and all of the outstanding efforts you have done for the blind community.   

Please see link below about the National Federation of the Blind for additional details about their organization and their efforts.