Houston celebrates White Cane Safety Day with events promoting awareness

White Cane Safety Day, which highlights the significance of the white cane for individuals with vision loss and blindness, will be celebrated in Houston. The white cane became prominent in the 1920s and 1930s and is now recognized globally as a symbol of disability. In 1964, Texas-born President Lyndon Johnson declared October 15 as White Cane Safety Day. Since 2007, Houston has marked this day annually to educate the community while promoting independence for those who rely on the white cane.

"In Houston, and across the nation we come together in the month of October to recognize the critical role that the white cane and service animal play in empowering the blind and low vision community," said Angel Ponce, Director of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities.

Two events are scheduled in Houston to commemorate White Cane Safety Day:

1. The first event will take place at the University of Houston Main Campus Student Center on Tuesday, October 15, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, contact Wendy Franklin at her office number (832-681-2650) or mobile (713-725-6921), or via email at wendy.franklin@twc.texas.gov.

"This day is about breaking barriers and making the world more aware of the independence and resilience of those who are blind or visually impaired. It’s empowering to walk through the city knowing the impact we are making," said an active participant of Houston White Cane Safety Day.

2. Another event will be held at Metropolitan Multi-Service Center on Saturday, October 12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For further details, reach out to Stacie Gallegos at her mobile number (832-779-7477) or via email at sgallegos@nfbtx.org.