PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, The white cane and the dog guide have come to symbolize every blind person’s right to pursue and achieve a full and independent life, and the use of the white cane or the dog guide allows blind persons to travel safely and effectively and undertake gainful employment and otherwise fully participate in society; and,

WHEREAS, Connecticut State law secures the right of blind persons to carry and use a white cane or be accompanied by a dog guide, whether on the streets and highways, traveling on public transportation, utilizing public accommodations, locating housing or working on the job, and Connecticut law also requires motorists to exercise appropriate caution when approaching a blind person using a white cane or dog guide; and,

WHEREAS, Connecticut law further encourages employers, both in private and public sectors, to explore and utilize the skills and potentials for productivity of the blind citizens of Connecticut, to recognize their capabilities and respect their worth as individuals; and,

WHEREAS, the State of Connecticut, with the assistance and cooperation of the National Federation of the Blind of Connecticut, can look forward to an ever increasing awareness of the abilities of blind people and to a greater acceptance of blind persons in the competitive labor market.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, James R. Miron, Mayor, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2008 as WHITE CANE SAFETY DAY
in the Town of Stratford call upon our schools, institutions and business leaders to take the lead in ensuring full acceptance and equal opportunities for the blind of Connecticut, and I also urge all citizens to recognize and respect the white can and the dog guide as representing safety, dignity and self-help for the blind of Connecticut.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the Town of Stratford this 15th day of October A.D. 2008.

James R. Miron, Mayor
Town of Stratford