Here's a story that I came across recounting the White Cane Day celebration in Eagle Pass, Texas. This came from the DARS - Division for Blind Services (DBS) web page, in their news area.
The Laredo Field Office has worked hard this year to coordinate White Cane Safety Day activities in Eagle Pass and, on October 15, 2007, a group of DBS staff traveled to Eagle Pass to join the city's very first official celebration of White Cane Safety Day!
Mayor Chad Foster opened the historical event by reading his White Cane Day proclamation to recognize the contributions of blind and visually impaired residents in Eagle Pass and to promote public awareness of the event's significance across the city. In his proclamation, he urged community members to be aware of the white cane law and their responsibility in upholding it. He also pointed out that everyone in Eagle Pass needs to be aware that persons with disabilities have much to offer, and he stressed that their energy, creativity, and hard work can strengthen the city and its economy.
The audience for the proclamation included numerous city officials, DBS staff and consumers, nurses from the United Health Clinic, and local partners from the Colonia Initiative. Following the proclamation ceremony, which was held outside a local clinic operated by Dr. Carlos Rodriguez, the group marched from the clinic to the local mall and back to the clinic.
After the march, everyone gathered to enjoy snacks and refreshments while DBS staff busily answered an array of questions from the group and promoted blindness education by discussing the misconceptions -- and the capabilities -- of people who are blind.
Eagle Pass, Texas, is a rural area that in the past few years has seen substantial growth in its economy and population. During the same period, DBS has seen a corresponding increase in the number of referrals for services, as well as the need to promote blindness awareness and education in the area. The city's first official White Cane Day celebration is one of the many awareness events planned for this community. We have a long road ahead but we are certain that, as we continue working toward our vision, Eagle Pass will become a community where people with disabilities can live independently and achieve the employment goals of their choice.