- Massachusetts Commission for the Blind

A Proclamation
Whereas, Every citizen of the Commonwealth has the right to lead a full and independent life, one which includes education, productive employment, and access to the community; and
Whereas, By allowing every citizen who is blind to move freely and safely from place to place, the a white cane enhances an individual’s potential for full participation in society as a citizen of the Commonwealth; and
Whereas, We recognize the importance of Orientation and Mobility training for children and adults in learning how to use a white cane to access the community; and
Whereas, The law requires that motorists come to a full stop when a pedestrian, using a white cane or dog guide is crossing a street; and
Whereas, Through public awareness, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts encourages all citizens to recognize the a white cane as a tool of independence for pedestrians who are blind,
Now, Therefore, I, Maura T. Healey, Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do hereby proclaim October 15th 2023, to be,
White Cane Awareness Day
And urge all residents of the Commonwealth to take cognizance of this event and participate fittingly in its observance.
Given at the Executive Chamber in Boston, this first day of October, in the year two thousand and twenty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America, the two hundred and forty-seventh.
By Her Excellency
Maura T. Healey
Governor of the Commonwealth
Kimberley Driscoll
Lt. Governor of the Commonwealth
William Francis Galvin
Secretary of the Commonwealth