[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