White Cane Safety Day

WHEREAS, many blind and visually impaired people, including famous musicians and writers, have made significant contributions to the United States; and

WHEREAS, many of these individuals have used a white cane to help them find success in educational institutions, work environments and their homes; and

WHEREAS, the first state law regarding the rights of blind people to travel independently with a white cane was passed in 1930, and granted blind pedestrians protection and the right-of-way while carrying a white cane; and

WHEREAS, in 1963, when very few individuals had achieved enough independence to travel alone on busy highways, the National Federation of the Blind called upon the governors from each state to proclaim October 15 White Cane Safety Day; and

WHEREAS, approved by joint resolution October 6, 1964, the United States Congress designated October 15 of each year as White Cane Safety Day; and

WHEREAS, white canes are recognized for providing the visually impaired with greater mobility, allowing them more full participation in their communities:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2011, as

White Cane Safety Day

in the State of the Alabama.

 

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 3rd day of October 2011.

Governor Robert Bentley