For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
October 15, 2001
White Cane Safety Day Proclamation
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
National White Cane Safety Day, observed annually on October 15, is a
day of special significance for blind and visually impaired Americans
because it represents a declaration of freedom. It also signifies a
commitment by the sighted community to improve access to basic services for
blind and visually impaired persons.
The familiar "white cane" is recognized as
a tool of independence that enables the blind and visually impaired to
participate in the facets of daily life. The core principles
of our country promise freedom, justice, and hope; and these principles
should guarantee the opportunity for every disabled American to live
full and productive lives. The new millennium brings with it
a renewed pledge to ensure that no citizen is prevented from realizing
the American dream because of a disability.
Eleven years ago, when the Americans with
Disabilities Act was enacted into law, America opened its doors to a
new age of access for people with disabilities. To build on
this landmark civil rights law, I have launched the "New Freedom
Initiative," which is intended to ensure that all Americans with
disabilities can participate more fully in the life of their
communities and of our country. As part of this initiative,
my Administration has asked the Congress to increase signi-ficantly
Federal funding for State low-interest loan programs, so Americans with
disabilities can purchase new assistive technologies. To
help researchers continue to develop these types of helpful
technologies, we have asked the Congress to increase Federal investment
in assistive technology research and development. All
Americans must work together to break down barriers and obstacles that
may impede the progress of individuals with disabilities; and we must
provide them with ever greater access to the workplace and public
transportation.
The Congress, by joint resolution approved
on October 6, 1964, has designated October 15 of each year as White
Cane Safety Day. I call upon every American to observe this
day by joining with me in working to open the doors of opportunity
further and making the American dream a reality for all blind and
visually impaired citizens of our Nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH,
President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October
15, 2001, as White Cane Safety Day. I call upon public
officials, educators, librarians, and all the people of the United
States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and
programs.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my
hand this fifteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord two
thousand one, and of the Independence of the United States of America
the two hundred and twenty-sixth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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