During the project meeting in Poland in October 2022 all the participants had the opportunity to experience an exceptional journey through the darkness.

 

What did it mean?

The teachers and the students were encouraged to leave their comfort zone and awaken their senses. In complete darkness we were guided by blind guides around specially designed places full of everyday objects. These objects took on new meaning when they became invisible. During our journey we experienced unique feelings, sounds, smells and textures.

In the darkness we visited different places. We were inside a house doing some everyday activities, we moved around busy streets in the city, we travelled by public transport, we relaxed on a sandy beach. We were also encouraged to do try different manual activities e.g. drawing or writing.

 

This experience was meant to:

●      show us the world  “seen” by people who cannot see

●      teach us to trust and rely on other senses than the sight

●      raise awareness of the diversity and inclusion of people defined as "disabled"

●       overcome false sympathy, prejudices and stereotypes

In the darkness interest replaces ignorance and understanding turns into empathy

Students’ opinions

 ‘Black World was a breathtaking experience. This place made me understand how difficult and different the blinds’ world is. The darkness was terrifying. I felt anxiety, fear and apprehension. This place positively influenced me, I understood how to behave towards blind people. It was one of the most interesting experiences in my life ‘- Julia Swierczynska

 

‘At first I was feeling weird and anxious. After a while I got used to it, although I  still wasn't very confident in what I was doing and I couldn't imagine where I was. It was strange feeling because I couldn't see anything even though my eyes were wide open.’ – Klaudia Lewandowska

 

‘When I went to the Black World, I was excited. After entering a dark room, I didn't see anything and I was dizzy. I learned how blind people have to cope. After finishing the workshop, I began to appreciate the fact that I can see and function without such problems’. – Alicja Mieczynska

 

‘I was feeling really confused at the beginning. I didn’t realise how hard it is to go somewhere where you can’t see anything. When I came in I started to feel a little sick and I needed to hold someone”s hand all the time to feel safe. It was an amazing experience and after it I started to have so much more respect for blind people’ – Wiktoria Kapuscinska

 

‘At the Black World  I experienced many different feelings. I was curious, excited and confused. During the workshop I learned a lot of things, mainly how blind people have to deal with everyday life. When the workshop was over I realized how hard it is for people who can't see, I also began to appreciate more that I am fully healthy and can see everything’. – Nadia Kijanska