[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 41 (Monday, October 15, 2007)]
[Page 1330]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8191--White Cane Safety Day, 2007

 October 12, 2007

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Our country upholds the value of every person, and all Americans 
deserve an opportunity to realize the American dream. Many citizens who 
are blind or visually impaired use white canes to achieve greater 
independence and increase mobility and productivity. On White Cane 
Safety Day, we celebrate the symbolism of the white cane, and we 
underscore our dedication to ensuring more individuals have the ability 
to lead active lives and achieve their personal and professional goals.
    My Administration is committed to helping Americans with 
disabilities live and work with greater freedom. Through the New Freedom 
Initiative, we are building on the progress of the Americans with 
Disabilities Act and helping our citizens who are blind or visually 
impaired gain greater access to the workplace, school, and community 
life. By working to tear down barriers, we are creating a society where 
all people are encouraged to reach their full potential and where the 
promise of our great Nation is accessible for everyone.
    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, 2007, as White Cane Safety Day. 
I call upon public officials, business leaders, educators, and all the 
people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate 
ceremonies, activities, and programs.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twelfth day of 
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
second.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:53 a.m., October 15, 
2007]

Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on 
October 16.