The University of Texas at El Paso and the El Paso Council of the Blind will celebrate White Cane Safety Day with a march around UTEP’s Centennial Plaza.
White Cane Safety Day is a national day of observance created by Lyndon B. Johnson to recognize people who are visually impaired and to bring awareness of their capabilities. It takes place during National Disability Awareness Month in October.
UTEP students, faculty and staff will meet outside between the College of Liberal Arts and the Union Building and march to and around Centennial Plaza.
Angelica Martinez, director of UTEP’s Center for Accommodations and Support Services, and El Paso City Rep. Claudia Rodriguez will read a proclamation, which will be followed by the national anthem. The event will continue with a reception, vendor tables and art exhibit at the Tomás Rivera Conference Center in Union Building East, third floor, through 2 p.m.
“White Cane Safety Day is special because it recognizes and celebrates the achievements of people who are blind or visually impaired,” Martinez said. “It also recognizes the importance of the white cane as a tool of independence for people who are blind.”
Blanca Cunningham, a member of the El Paso Council of the Blind board of directors, said the organization is excited about the event and the partnership it has formed with UTEP.
“We look forward to highlighting guidance on safe practices for engaging with those who utilize a white cane and the significance of independence within the blind community,” Cunningham said.
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