[Nfbofsc] NFB Sumter Chapter: October Awareness Month & White Cane Safety Day

[Debra Canty]

OCTOBER-Blind Awareness Month-October 15th-White Cane Safety Day

 

WHEREAS, The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future.

WHEREAS, Everyday, we raise the expectations of blind people because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams.

WHEREAS, You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back. 

WHEREAS, the white cane is a simple, yet effective tool of independence that contributes to the self-sufficiency of the blind and visually impaired by allowing us to navigate through our environment safely and avoiding physical barriers.

WHEREAS, the white cane is a symbol of dignity and determination as well as a tangible reminder that we are able to go, to move, to be, and to compete with all others in society and to lead full, independent, and productive lives. WHEREAS, the 2014 observance of "Blind Awareness Month Is Observed In October" which provides an opportunity for people across the nation to renew our dedication to eliminating barriers for the blind and visually impaired. NOW, THEREFORE, it is hereby proclaim October 15, 2014 as WHITE CANE SAFETY DAY throughout the nation and encourage all persons to show respect for those who carry the white cane, to honor their many achievements, and to reaffirm our commitment to improving access to basic services for blind and visually impaired persons.

WHEREAS, here are some awareness reminders from blind and visually impaired members of the Sumter Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind.

WHEREAS, those who refrain from shouting when talking to me.
WHEREAS, those who talk directly to me and not the other person there and act as if I am invisible.

WHEREAS, those who will reach over me when passing out programs and literature in a meeting, etc. 

WHEREAS, Those who will gladly get my attention and hand me an envelope to participate in the offering.

WHEREAS, those who will identify themselves when speaking to me and not asked, "Guess who"? 
WHEREAS, those who are having a conversation and walk away and leave me still talking to the air. 
WHEREAS, those who wait for me to extend my hand before shaking it.
WHEREAS, those who gently place my hand on a object such as the back of a chair when telling me where it is, so I can seat myself without so much attention.

WHEREAS, those who try and quietly walk by me and not say a word.

WHEREAS, Those who do not discredit me by referring to my blindness negatively in word or action.
WHEREAS, Those who do not distract my guide dog from being my active eyes. 

WHEREAS, those who laugh with me when I tell a joke related to blindness.

THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED, those who make an assumption, when I am going down the steps and folks on both sides of me feel it is necessary to take away my white cane and lift up my arms, which I no longer have a concept of the depths of the steps or when I am on the last one.

THEREFORE IT BE FARTHER RESOLVED, I AM a human being who happens to be blind.



Parts of this proclamation was written by the blind and visually impaired members of the Sumter Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind.

Debra Canty, Pres.
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