By Philip Francis Anderson, Activist and Podcast Host campaigning for change.

Dos

1. Do use person-first language: Instead of referring to someone as a "blind person" or a "blind individual," opt for person-first language, such as "person with sight loss" or "person living with visual impairment." This emphasizes their individuality beyond their visual condition.
   
2. Do introduce yourself: When meeting someone with sight loss, initiate the introduction by stating your name. This helps them identify your voice and facilitates smoother communication.
   
3. Do offer assistance respectfully: If you notice the person might need assistance, politely ask if they require any help. Always respect their autonomy and allow them to accept or decline your offer. Avoid assuming they need assistance without asking first.
   
4. Do communicate clearly: When conversing with someone with sight loss, maintain clear and concise communication. Speak naturally and avoid using exaggerated gestures or raising your voice unnecessarily.
   
5. Do describe your surroundings: If you need to provide visual information, offer verbal descriptions of the environment. For instance, you can mention the layout of the room, the location of objects, or any changes in the surroundings.
   

Don'ts

1. Don't touch without permission: Avoid touching or grabbing a person with sight loss without their consent. Respect their personal space and ask for permission before guiding or assisting them physically.
2. Don't make assumptions: It's essential not to assume what a person with sight loss can or cannot do. Everyone's abilities and preferences differ, so let them communicate their needs and capabilities.
3. Don't underestimate their skills: Sight loss does not diminish a person's intelligence, talents, or abilities. Avoid underestimating their skills or limiting their opportunities based solely on their visual impairment.
4. Don't distract guide dogs: If a person with sight loss has a guide dog, avoid distracting or petting the dog without permission. Guide dogs are highly trained working animals and should not be disrupted while on duty.
5. Don't use offensive language or stereotypes: Avoid using derogatory terms or assumptions about sight loss. Treat the person as an individual and acknowledge their strengths, accomplishments, and interests beyond their visual impairment.