[NFBofSC] Happy White Cane Safety Day

[president at nfbofsc.org]

Dear Federation Family and Friends,

 

Today, October 15, is White Cane Safety Day. In 1964 Congress passed a joint
resolution that set aside this day each year. President Lyndon B. Johnson
signed the first proclamation. The National Federation of the Blind worked
hard to make that happen. Our founder, Dr. Jacobus tenBroek, believed that
blind people have the right to live in the world. That means walking our
streets, riding the bus, going to work and raising our families just like
everyone else. In 2011 the day was also named Blind Americans Equality Day.
That name says what we have always known. The white cane is not a symbol of
helplessness. It is a tool of independence and equality.

 

Every state now has a white cane law, and South Carolina is one of them.
These laws require drivers to yield to a pedestrian who is carrying a white
cane or using a guide dog. That protection only works if people know about
it. So today I ask each of you to help spread the word. Share this message
with your family, your coworkers and your church. Remind the drivers in your
life to stop, look and give us the right of way. Governor Henry McMaster
issued our White Cane Safe Day Proclamation included at the end of this
email.

 

I also want to speak to anyone who is newly blind or still unsure about
using a cane. Pick it up and use it with pride. The long white cane gave me
freedom, and it can do the same for you. With good training and high
expectations, you can travel anywhere you want to go. If you want help
finding cane travel training or a free cane through the NFB Free White Cane
Program, reach out to me or your chapter president. You do not have to
figure this out alone.

 

Together we are changing what it means to be blind. Happy White Cane Safety
Day!

 

State of South Carolina

Governor's Proclamation

 

WHEREAS, the white cane is recognized as a symbol of independence for
persons who are blind or visually impaired, and is an extension of its user
permitting safe mobility and confidence in daily life; and

WHEREAS, the citizens of South Carolina should be mindful of the
responsibility to yield to and protect individuals who rely upon the white
cane, and to observe traffic laws and pedestrian safety with special concern
for those with visual disabilities; and

WHEREAS, South Carolina law ensures that persons with disabilities be
afforded full and equal access to public streets, sidewalks, public
buildings, public accommodations, transportation, and other public
facilities; and

WHEREAS, every citizen is urged to promote accessibility, maintain safe
public walkways, offer assistance when appropriate, and support efforts to
increase public awareness of the rights and capabilities of persons who are
blind or visually impaired.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Henry Dargan McMaster, Governor of the great State of
South Carolina, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2026 as WHITE CANE SAFETY DAY

throughout the state and encourage all South Carolinians 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 and
opportunities for blind and visually impaired persons.

 

The Great Seal of the State of South Carolina.

 

Signature of Henry Dargan McMaster.

 

Henry Dargan McMaster. Governor. State of South Carolina.

 

My best,



Marty

 

Marty R. McKenzie, President

National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina

119 S. Kilbourne Road

Columbia, SC 29205

Phone: 803-254-3777

Mobile: 843-939-8091

Website:  <http://www.nfbofsc.org/> www.nfbofsc.org

 

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