As noted in a previous Bulletin, White Cane Day, recognized on October 15th each year, will be celebrated across the United States. Many events are being held in person for the first time in a few years. Here are two that can be joined in online:
On Friday, October 14, 2022, from 10 to 11:30 am Eastern Time (ET), the MCB (Massachusetts Commission for the Blind) White Cane Awareness Day Virtual Celebration will cover the history of the white cane, its benefits, different types of canes, and more. Inspiring individuals who use canes to travel to work, school, and community activities will share their experiences. Those attending will have the opportunity to earn one continuing education credit from ACVREP (Association for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals). Participants can join via Zoom or telephone. For additional details, and the Zoom link and telephone numbers, read the Mass.gov piece on the MCB White Cane Awareness Day Virtual Celebration.
Later in the day on Friday, October 14, 2022, from 1 to 2:30 pm Pacific Time (10 to 11:30 am ET), the Lions Club and the Los Angeles Center are hosting their White Cane Day Celebration, which will be held in person in Los Angeles and online. The event features a presidential proclamation, testimonials from white cane users, and more. Learn more and register by visiting the Braille Institute web page for the White Cane Day Celebration — Los Angeles and Virtual.
The White Cane Law
Both of the events described above will also include background information about the White Cane Law. White Cane Laws, in effect in each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia, are laws that support pedestrians who are blind being able to access streets and public thoroughfares fully. They require drivers to use every possible precaution when approaching a pedestrian with a white or metallic cane or using a guide dog. A resource from the American Council of the Blind (ACB) details laws, regulations, and penalties for each state, as well as excerpts from the state’s drivers’ manual. Access the information here for White Cane Laws for States.
