Nearly 60 years ago, President Lyndon Johnson signed a law designating October 15 as White Cane Safety Day. This year, as in many previous years, blind, DeafBlind, and visually impaired Minnesotans and many allies gathered in the Capitol rotunda to celebrate the power of this simple tool in promoting independence and equality. Speeches were made, a proclamation from Governor Walz was read, the choir of the Minnesota State Academy for the Blind sang, and, at the conclusion, we all headed out of the Capitol for a one-mile walk with white canes and dog guides in abundance. 

I look forward to this day every year. What I enjoy the most is being with all the students who come from all across the state to be at this celebration. For them, learning the skills of using a white cane, or traveling with a dog guide, not only increases their independence, but also boosts their confidence, and connects them with community. 

At State Services for the Blind (SSB) I manage programs for students ages 14-21. These years represent such a critical time of life, when students are preparing to launch into adulthood, with all the opportunities, challenges, and responsibilities that that transition brings. At SSB, we work to provide blind, DeafBlind, and visually impaired students with a wealth of experiences, work opportunities, programs, and other resources so that they are in the best possible position to make this transition successfully. 

At this year’s White Cane Day celebration, I had the honor to offer a few remarks. I addressed my reflections to that beautiful array of students before me. I wanted them to know that they were not alone, and the white cane is one symbol of our connection with one another as a community. As we left the Capitol that morning, for a walk in the brisk autumn air (and a few snowflakes), I felt a surge of pride and hope as I thought about the bright future for these students. For them, the white cane or dog guide is just one more tool for independence, equality, and achievement.