[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 42 (Monday, October 20, 2003)]
[Pages 1388-1389]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7722--White Cane Safety Day, 2003

 October 15, 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

[[Page 1389]]

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.
    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

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., October 16, 
2003]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on October 
17.