On Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 10:00 AM, the blind community of Seattle and their allies will gather at the base of the Space Needle (400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109) to begin the 4th Annual White Cane Day Walk. Sponsored by the White Cane Awareness Network and a coalition of local organizations, the walk celebrates the independence and achievements of people who are blind or have low vision while raising public awareness of the white cane as a vital mobility tool.

The walk concludes at the Washington Talking Book & Braille Library (WTBBL) (2021 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121), where guest speakers, vendors, and community activities will follow.

Why White Cane Day Matters

First recognized nationally in 1964, White Cane Day honors the achievements of blind and low vision individuals and emphasizes the importance of the white cane as a symbol and tool of independence.

“For blind people, the white cane is an essential tool that gives us the ability to achieve a full and independent life. It allows us to move freely and safely from place to place—whether it’s at work, at school, or around our neighborhoods.”

— Marci Carpenter, President, National Federation of the Blind of Washington

The white cane not only represents safety and freedom of movement but also a connection to community and opportunity.

“For so many of us who are blind, the white cane opens up a life of connection—allowing us to travel, work, and participate fully in our communities.”
— Shawn Dobbs, Senior VP of Administration and Communications, The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc.

Event Schedule

10:00 AM — Walk begins at the Space Needle
11:00 AM — Guest Speakers at WTBBL (Conference Room)
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM — Vendor Hall and Activities (WTBBL, upstairs)

Participants are encouraged to RSVP in advance here: RSVP Link

Who Organizes the Walk?

The 4th Annual White Cane Day Walk is organized by the White Cane Awareness Network, a newly formed nonprofit, in collaboration with:

The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc.
Washington Talking Book & Braille Library (WTBBL)
National Federation of the Blind of Washington
Washington Council of the Blind
Washington State Department of Services for the Blind

Together, these organizations amplify the voices of blind and low vision individuals, advocate for accessibility, and build stronger community connections.

A Celebration of Independence & Community

The walk is more than just a symbolic gesture. It is:

A celebration of achievements of people who are blind or low vision.
A reminder to the public of the critical role of accessibility tools like the white cane.
A chance for organizations and service providers to connect directly with the community.
An event where friends, families, and allies stand alongside the blind community in solidarity.

The reception at WTBBL will feature guest speakers, vendor booths offering resources, and interactive activities designed to inspire and educate.

How to Get Involved

Join the walk — RSVP online at RSVP Link.
Spread the word — Share on social media and invite friends and allies.
Volunteer — Support the event by guiding walkers, assisting vendors, or helping at WTBBL. Sign up here: Volunteer Registration Form
Visit vendors — Learn about accessibility services, technology, and advocacy organizations.

Looking Ahead

The Seattle White Cane Day Walk has become a cornerstone event, marking October as a month of advocacy, pride, and awareness. With growing participation each year, the 2025 walk promises to be the largest yet, uniting voices across Seattle in a call for inclusion and recognition of the blind community.

Join us on October 11th at 10:00 AM—walk in celebration, stand for independence, and honor the power of the white cane.