World White Cane Day 2023: Know the Courtesy Rules of Blindness

World White Cane Day is observed annually on October 15th to celebrate the resilience and achievements of the blind and visually impaired. 

The white cane is a symbol of independence and mobility for the blind and visually impaired, and World White Cane Day is a day to raise awareness about the importance of accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities.

World White Cane Day is an important day to celebrate the contributions of the blind and visually impaired to society. 

People with disabilities are often marginalized and excluded, but World White Cane Day is a day to celebrate their resilience and achievements. It is also a day to raise awareness about the importance of accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities.

International White Cane Safety Day observed in #Srinagar at Dal Lake from Ghat No. 1 to Ghat No. 18.

Help Foundation JK, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Handicapped Association, is dedicated to promoting awareness about the significance of embracing disabilities and… pic.twitter.com/xZiCBRFWr3

— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) October 15, 2023

What Is the History of World White Cane Day?

World White Cane Day was first celebrated in 1964, and it was established by the International Federation of the Blind (IFB). 

The purpose of the day was to promote the use of the white cane as a mobility aid for the blind and visually impaired and to raise awareness about the needs of people with disabilities.

The white cane quickly became a popular mobility aid for the blind and visually impaired, and it is now used by people with disabilities all over the world. 

The white cane is a symbol of independence and mobility for people with disabilities, and World White Cane Day is a day to celebrate their resilience and achievements.

According to the National Federation of the Blind, “While it was not uncommon throughout history for blind people to use a stick or cane to navigate, society largely didn't accept that blind people could travel by ourselves until recently.” 

“In the 1960s, the National Federation of the Blind became a leader in fighting for the rights of the blind and in pioneering innovative training programs using the white cane. At our urging, the United States Congress adopted a joint resolution in 1964 designating October 15 of each year as White Cane Safety Day and recognizing that white canes enable blind people to travel safely and independently,” it adds. 

What Is the Significance of World White Cane Day? 

World White Cane Day is significant for a number of reasons:

• It celebrates the resilience and achievements of the blind and visually impaired. People with disabilities often face discrimination and marginalization, but World White Cane Day is a day to celebrate their contributions to society and to recognize their accomplishments.
• It raises awareness about the needs of the blind and visually impaired. Many people are unaware of the challenges faced by the blind and visually impaired. World White Cane Day is a great opportunity to educate others about the needs of people with disabilities and to promote understanding and acceptance.
• It advocates for accessibility and inclusion. People with disabilities have the right to access the same opportunities as everyone else. World White Cane Day is a great opportunity to advocate for accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities in all areas of society, including education, employment, transportation, and recreation.

World White Cane Day is an important day for everyone, but it is especially significant for the blind and visually impaired. It is a day to celebrate their resilience and achievements, to raise awareness about their needs, and advocate for accessibility and inclusion.

What Is the COURTESY Rule of Blindness? 

This rule helps people to understand the challenges of blind people and by following these methods, you can interact with the visually impaired in a respectful manner: 

• Cane: A cane is a symbol of independence for blind people. If you think they might need help, just ask.
• Ordinary: Blind people are ordinary people. Don't be amazed when they do ordinary things like walking or tying their shoes. It's okay to be amazed if they do something really exceptional.
• Understand: Blind people may not recognize your voice if they don't know you well. Please say, "Hi, it's [your name]."
• Remember: Some blind people may have some sight, but they use nonvisual techniques and tools because it works best for them. Don't assume that they're "faking" because they can see a little.
• Talk: Please talk to blind people directly, rather than through a companion. There's no need to speak up or talk differently than you would with anyone else.
• Experience: Blind people have years of experience using nonvisual techniques to live their lives. Feel free to ask them how they do something, or how best you can assist them, if help is needed.
• See: It's okay to still use words like "see" and "look." Blind people talk like everyone else, although they may not be able to make direct eye contact.
• Yield: Drivers are required to yield the right of way to blind people with white canes or guide dogs.