For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
October 11, 2002
White Cane Safety Day, 2002
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
The white cane is a powerful symbol of independence and opportunity
for visually impaired persons. It is also an essential tool for
increasing mobility and productivity for those who are blind as well as
those who suffer from severe visual impairment. On White Cane Safety
Day, our Nation renews its dedication to eliminating barriers for every
disabled American, especially the blind and visually impaired.
My Administration seeks to ensure that all Americans enjoy full
access to employment, education, and all the blessings of freedom.
Through my "New Freedom Initiative," we are working to provide people
with disabilities more employment opportunities and increased access to
new technologies for independent living. My 2003 budget for this
initiative proposes $145 million for alternative transportation and
innovative transportation grants that will improve accessibility to
vital aspects of society including schools, jobs, and places of
worship. By implementing these and other important reforms, we can
make great progress towards an America where individuals are celebrated
for their talents and abilities, not judged by their limitations and
disabilities.
The Congress, by joint resolution (Public Law 88-628) approved on
October 6, 1964, as amended, has designated October 15 of each year as
"White Cane Safety Day."
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2002, as White Cane Safety
Day. I call upon public officials, educators, librarians, and all the
people of the United States to join with me in ensuring that all the
benefits and privileges of life in our great Nation are available to
blind and visually impaired individuals, and to observe this day with
appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eleventh day
of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-seventh.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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