In 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson first proclaimed October 15th as “White Cane Safety Day.” The original purpose was a safety reminder to promote courtesy and special consideration to blind people who are navigating America’s streets and roadways. Since this first observance, White Cane Safety Day has taken on greater meaning as a time to celebrate the self-sufficiency of people who are blind or visually impaired and their right to participate fully in society.
This year a special effort is taking place on the State Capitol steps on October 15, and Vision Resources of Central Pennsylvania (VROCP) is proud to join other organizations bringing public awareness to White Cane Day. VROCP recognizes the importance of White Cane Laws and salutes the greater independence of persons in the blind community. You too can play a role by forwarding this message to your friends and family. Just a few clicks from you can make a difference!
As a reminder, Pennsylvania’s White Cane Law states:
“The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to any totally or partially blind pedestrian carrying a clearly visible white cane or accompanied by a guide dog and shall take such precautions as may be necessary to avoid injuring or endangering the pedestrian and, if necessary, shall stop the vehicle in order to prevent injury or danger to the pedestrian.”Please pass this message along to others and BE AWARE! Thank you.
