Scharna Doll with the Central Kansas Association for the Visually Impaired told the Barton County Commission that advocates hope that Kansas will recognize White Cane Day as other states have.

As the white cane keeps blind people safe and improves navigation in the environment, we recognize that the emphasis of White Cane Day, as established by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964. The observance has shifted over time away from safety toward independence and equality. On Tuesday, the Commission recognized White Cane Awareness Day on October 28, 2025.  

The proclamation reads:

WHEREAS, visually impaired people use their senses of hearing and touch to explore and understand the world. The white cane, introduced in the 1930s, expands that effort – allowing for a longer reach so that visually impaired people can more easily assess situations, and move quickly and confidently; and

WHEREAS, as the white cane keeps blind people safe and improves navigation in the environment, we recognize that the emphasis of White Cane Day, as established by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964, has shifted over time away from safety and toward independence and equality; and

WHEREAS, it is important to celebrate this history and recognize the white cane as an important tool that allows blind and visually impaired people to become independent, an important goal for all.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT PROCLAIMED by the Board of County Commissioners of Barton County, Kansas, that Tuesday, October 28, 2025, is recognized as White Cane Awareness Day; and  

FURTHER, that County citizens are urged to recognize the independence of the blind and visually impaired and to be cognizant of the symbolism of the white cane; and

FURTHER, that members of the Central Kansas Association for the Visually Impaired are recognized for their contribution to the Barton County community.

Dated this 28th day of October, 2025.