White Cane Safety Day, 2001

Proclamation 7486 of October 15, 2001

White Cane Safety Day, 2001

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 significantly 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.

(Presidential Sig.)B