    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 117, 108th Congress, 1st Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    Proclamation 7722 of October 15, 2003

    White Cane Safety Day, 2003

    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Every day, millions of Americans who are blind or visually impaired use
    the white cane as they travel, attend school, or work. The white cane
    remains one of the most important and reliable tools for people who are
    blind or visually impaired. It increases the mobility of these citizens,
    facilitating their inclusion in all aspects of American life. Since 1964
    on White Cane Safety Day, America has reaffirmed our commitment to
    achieving equal opportunity and full independence for those who are
    blind or visually impaired.
    Today, more people with disabilities are attending school and working
    than ever before. However, much work remains to fully open the doors of
    opportunity for citizens who are blind or visually impaired. To meet
    these challenges, I have created the New Freedom Initiative, a
    comprehensive plan to assist Americans with disabilities by increasing
    access to educational and employment opportunities. This initiative is
    lowering barriers more so that Americans can participate fully in their
    communities, and live and work in dignity and freedom.
    My Administration also continues to promote implementation of section
    508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This important statute requires
    the Federal Government to make more of its electronic and information
    technology resources, including Government websites, accessible to
    people with disabilities.
    As we recognize the contributions of people who are blind or visually
    impaired, we resolve to continue building a better America where all
    individuals are celebrated for their abilities and encouraged to achieve
    their dreams.

    [[Page 3103]]
    117 STAT. 3103

    The Congress, by joint resolution (Public Law 88-628) approved on
    October 6, 1964, as amended, has designated October 15 of each year as
    ``White Cane Safety Day.''
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
    America, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2003, as White Cane Safety Day.
    I call upon public officials, educators, librarians, and all the people
    of the United States to join with me in ensuring that all the benefits
    and privileges of life in our great Nation are available to blind and
    visually impaired individuals, and to observe this day with appropriate
    ceremonies, activities, and programs.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifteenth day of
    October, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
    eighth.
    GEORGE W. BUSH