Mark Riccobono, President of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), said that Uber’s voluntary self-identification feature will assist in identifying drivers who deny service to blind riders with guide dogs. This announcement was made in a press release on February 3.
“We appreciate Uber’s willingness to engage with our feedback and create a fully voluntary self-identification feature that will help identify drivers who deny service to blind people who use guide dogs,” said Riccobono. “We remain committed to collaboration that implements meaningful solutions that uphold the rights and dignity of all blind people.”
According to the press release, Uber’s new self-identification feature allows riders with service animals to declare their status within the app and opt to automatically inform drivers upon arrival. This update eliminates the need for riders to manually notify drivers beforehand, streamlining communication between both parties. To activate the feature, riders must complete an eligibility form within the app, with the flexibility to update their preferences or disable self-identification at any time.
The Seeing Eye supports Uber’s voluntary self-identification feature as “a positive step toward identifying drivers who deny people with service animals,” according to President and CEO Karen Leies. Leies added that the feature “will not only help prevent rideshare refusals for guide dog handlers but also provide data that will aid Uber in addressing rideshare discrimination for our community.” Founded in 1929, The Seeing Eye is the oldest guide dog school in the United States, dedicated to enhancing mobility and independence for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
Riccobono was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and diagnosed with glaucoma and aniridia at age five, leading to progressive vision loss. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 1999, where he founded the Wisconsin Association of Blind Students. In 2014, Riccobono was elected president of the National Federation of the Blind, becoming an advocate for the rights and opportunities of blind individuals.
According to their website, the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) is the largest and oldest nationwide organization led by blind individuals. It has been advocating for the rights, opportunities, and independence of blind people since its founding in 1940. The organization addresses key issues such as accessibility in education, employment, and transportation while combating discrimination against service animal handlers. NFB provides resources, training programs, and legislative advocacy to empower blind individuals and promote full participation in society.
