Today, Tuesday October 15, is International White Cane Safety Day.
The white cane is an essential tool that gives blind people the ability to achieve a full and independent life. It allows for them to move freely and safely from place to place – whether it’s at work, at school, or around their neighbourhoods.
International White Cane Safety Day was started in the United States of America in 1964 to celebrate the achievements of people who are blind or visually impaired.
eThekwini Municipality, in collaboration with stakeholders from the visually impaired sector, commemorated International White Cane Safety Day to raise awareness.
The theme being celebrated this year is Promoting Inclusion: Celebrating abilities and advocating access for all.
The commemoration featured activities aimed at enhancing awareness and respect for white cane users, said eThekwini Municipality communications spokesperson, Gugu Sisilana.
The day was to include a demonstration at the Magabheni Taxi Rank in Durban. “The taxi drivers will be educated on the importance of respecting and accommodating white cane users on the roads. Following this, a march will take place to raise awareness and education about the white cane, concluding at the Magabheni Community Hall, south of Durban,” said Ms Sisilana.
