The State of Maryland Proclamation
From the Governor of the State of Maryland
WHITE CANE AWARENESS DAY
OCTOBER 15, 2023
WHEREAS, The white cane, which every blind citizen of our country has the right to carry, demonstrates and symbolizes the ability to achieve a full and independent life and the capacity to work productively in competitive employment; and
WHEREAS, The white cane, by allowing every blind person to move freely and safely from place to place, makes it possible for the blind to fully participate in and contribute to our society and to live the lives they want; and
WHEREAS, Every citizen should be aware that the law requires that motorists and cyclists exercise appropriate caution when approaching a blind person carrying a white cane; and
WHEREAS, Maryland law also calls upon employers, both public and private, to be aware of and utilize the employment skills of our blind citizens by recognizing their worth as individuals and their productive capacities; and
WHEREAS, The State of Maryland, through its public agencies and with the cooperative assistance of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, can and should facilitate the expansion of employment opportunities for and greater acceptance of blind persons in the competitive labor market.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, WES MOORE, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND, do hereby proclaim OCTOBER 15, 2023 as WHITE CANE AWARENESS DAY in Maryland, and do commend this observance to all of our citizens.
Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the State of Maryland, this 15th day of October, Two Thousand and twenty-three
Wes Moore, Governor
Aruna Miller, Lt. Governor
Susan C. Lee, Secretary of State