Blind Veterans and Expanding Accessibility
Alexandria, La. (UrbanCast: 7/15/2026) – Visitors to the Rapides Parish Library will soon be able to experience one of America’s most recognizable symbols of freedom in a unique and meaningful way.
This July, the Rapides Parish Library invites the community to attend a series of special dedication ceremonies celebrating the installation of new Bronze Braille American Flags, creating permanent installations that honor blind and visually impaired veterans while expanding accessibility for all members of the community.
The Braille American Flag features raised stars and stripes, allowing visitors to experience the flag through touch. The monument also includes the Pledge of Allegiance presented in Braille, creating an interactive and educational experience that highlights both patriotism and accessibility. The installations embody the spirit of the project’s theme: “Honoring Freedom. Ensuring Access for All.”
Presented in commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the United States (1776–2026), the dedication ceremonies recognize the courage, sacrifice, and advocacy of blind veterans whose efforts helped advance education, rehabilitation services, and equal opportunities for visually impaired Americans.
Heart of the Library’s Mission
“This project aligns with the very heart of the library’s mission—ensuring that everyone has access to information, learning, and meaningful community engagement,” said Celise Reech-Harper, Director of the Rapides Parish Library. “The Bronze Braille American Flag honors the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans while reminding us that true freedom includes accessibility and inclusion for all. We are proud to bring this powerful symbol to our communities and invite everyone to join us in celebrating its installation.” In addition to honoring veterans, library officials hope the installations will foster greater awareness and understanding of accessibility and the experiences of individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Rapides Parish Library and the Louisiana/Mississippi Blinded Veterans Association Regional Group, Inc. Funding has been provided in part through a grant from the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, made possible by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of the State of Louisiana.
Installation Ceremony Schedule
Martin Library
July 16, 2026 • 10:00 a.m.
801 West Shamrock Street
Pineville, LA
Libuse Branch
July 17, 2026 • 2:00 p.m.
6375 Highway 28 East
Pineville, LA
Westside Regional Library
July 20, 2026 • 6:00 p.m.
5416 Provine Place
Alexandria, LA
Community members of all ages are encouraged to attend these special events, learn more about the history and contributions of blind veterans, and experience the Bronze Braille American Flag firsthand. Refreshments will be provided following each ceremony.
About Rapides Parish Library
Rapides Parish Library is dedicated to providing access to information, educational resources, cultural enrichment, and lifelong learning opportunities for all members of the community.
Promoting literacy, guiding discovery, changing lives… for all.
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