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Recognizing White Cane Day – October 15

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Graphic of a woman using a white cane in a crosswalk
October 15 is National White Cane Safety Day, a day to promote awareness about the rights and safety of pedestrians who are blind or visually impaired, especially when using mobility aids like the white cane.
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The History of the White Cane

  • In 1921, James Biggs from Bristol, England, first painted his walking stick white to increase its visibility amidst increasing traffic.
  • The concept of the white cane gained recognition in the United States in 1930 when the Peoria, Illinois Lions Club promoted it as a mobility aid. By 1936, cities like Detroit had passed ordinances recognizing the rights of pedestrians using white canes.
  • The significance of the white cane reached a national level in 1964 when Congress declared October 15 as White Cane Safety Day. Since then, every U.S. President has annually proclaimed this day to raise awareness about the challenges and independence of those using white canes.

White Cane Laws in Oregon
In Oregon, pedestrians who are blind, visually impaired, or deaf-blind have specific rights when navigating public spaces. Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) provide the following rights and protections:

  1. ORS 811.035: Drivers must stop and remain stopped for a pedestrian carrying a white cane or accompanied by a service dog when crossing the roadway.
  2. ORS 814.110: It is unlawful for individuals who are not visually impaired or blind to use a white cane. This law protects the integrity and recognition of the white cane as a tool for independence and safety for those who need it.

These laws ensure that individuals using white canes or mobility aids are treated with respect and given the time they need to navigate public spaces safely. Failure to adhere to these laws can result in penalties, including traffic violations.

How You Can Help
As a community, we can all do our part by:

  • Always being vigilant for pedestrians using white canes, service dogs, or other mobility aids at intersections.
  • Being patient and giving them extra time to cross the street.
  • Educating others about the importance of the white cane as a symbol of independence and safety.

On White Cane Day, we recognize the importance of safe practices that ensure dignity and safety for those who are blind or visually impaired. Let’s all do our part to keep our streets safe.

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