Oct 15 is White Cane Day which was marked by the third annual community celebration walk through downtown Seattle. Starting at the Washington Talking Book and Braille Library, nearly 100 people who are blind, people with low vision, and allies and friends walked in solidarity highlighting their empowerment as independent people.
“The white cane to me is both a sign and everyday tool of independence.” states George Abbott The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. President and CEO. “When I walk out the door, I put on my clothes, put on my shoes, and grab my cane. It’s just that natural.”
White Cane Day also known as White Cane Safety Day has been a national holiday since October 6, 1964, when it was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson as the first White Cane Safety Day proclamation. In 2011, White Cane Safety Day was also named Blind Americans Equality Day by President Barack Obama. The date is set aside to celebrate the achievements of people who are blind or low vision and highlights how the cane is an important symbol of blindness and a tool of independence.
A white cane is a device used by many people who are blind or low vision and primarily allows its user to scan their surroundings for obstacles or to locate orientation marks. “It’s useful for several reasons. It first alerts people around you that you don’t see them,” continues George Abbott. “And it’s great for detecting changes in the walking surface and is helpful when you navigate to the grocery store, the bus, or wherever you want to go. It is comforting in many ways and is an important tool for self-sufficiency.”
This annual event is hosted by a collective of blindness organizations to raise visibility of blind independence and self-reliance. The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc., Washington State’s Department of Services for the Blind, Washington Talking Book & Braille Library, The National Federation of the Blind, Blind and Low Vision Yoga Seattle, and You Cane Give Initiative all contributed resources and collective efforts to support this important culturally significant event.
“The highlight of the walk is the solidarity of people from all walks of life, all ages proceeding through downtown Seattle,” states Marci Carpenter President of the Washington Chapter of National Federation of the Blind, and co-chair of the event. “The camaraderie of proudly walking with a cane in-hand, with our friends and allies, is palpable.”
If you are interested in joining us next year, please mark your calendar for the weekend before and after October 15! We’d love to see you there!
