For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
October 16, 2004
White Cane Safety Day, 2004
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
To help increase their mobility and assist them in their daily
lives, many people who are blind or visually impaired use a white
cane. On White Cane Safety Day, we celebrate the symbolism of this
important tool and the enduring spirit of independence and
determination shown by Americans who use it.
In 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the first Presidential
proclamation for White Cane Safety Day. He wrote that the observance
would "make our people more fully aware of the meaning of the white
cane" and help increase the safety and self-reliance of our citizens
who are blind or visually impaired. Over the last four decades, our
Nation has removed many barriers for these individuals, making it
easier for them to find jobs, access public buildings, and live
independently in their communities.
Today, we are working to ensure that all Americans with
disabilities have the opportunity to live with dignity, work
productively, and realize their full potential. Through the New
Freedom Initiative, my Administration continues to build on the
progress of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) to
further promote the full participation of people with disabilities in
all areas of society. The Department of Justice's ADA Business
Connection is helping create a better understanding of ADA requirements
and promote dialogue between the business community and the disability
community. And the Department of Justice's Project Civic Access is
improving public facilities to ensure that people with disabilities are
integrated into community life. Through the Ticket to Work program and
the Work Incentives Improvement Act, we are making significant strides
toward building an America where all individuals are recognized for
their talents and creativity. These efforts will help provide
Americans who are blind or visually impaired the opportunity to pursue
their dreams and realize the promise of our great country.
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, 2004, as White Cane Safety
Day. I call upon public officials, business leaders, 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 Nation are
available to individuals who are blind and visually impaired, and 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 four, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-ninth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
# # #
|