WHEREAS, the month of October is observed as National Blind Equality Achievement Month celebrating the history, advancement, and accomplishments of the organized blind movement; and

WHEREAS, throughout the month a variety of local outreach activities, many of which center around White Cane Awareness Day, celebrated on October 15, are offered to highlight and continue to bring awareness to National Blind Equality Achievement Month; and

WHEREAS, the white cane is a symbol of strength and independence amongst the blind community, as it demonstrates the ability to move freely and safely from place to place, making it possible for the blind to live the lives they want and fully participate in and contribute to our society; and

WHEREAS, Salt Lake City strives to be is an inclusive city progressing broader equity amongst all underserved populations, including the blind community, and will continue to seek education and insight from our SLC Accessibility Advisory Committee and the local chapter of the National Federation of the Blind on how to better serve the needs of blind persons; and

WHEREAS, Salt Lake City recognizes the worth and productive capabilities of our blind citizens and will continue to facilitate the expansion of employment opportunities and greater acceptance of blind persons within the city’s competitive labor market; and    

WHEREAS, we call upon our educational institutions to offer full opportunities for training to blind persons; upon employers to utilize the available skills of competent blind persons and to open new opportunities for the blind in our rapidly changing society; and upon all citizens to recognize the white cane as a tool of independence for blind pedestrians in our neighborhoods and on our streets.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Erin Mendenhall, Mayor of Salt Lake City, proclaim the month of October 2021:

Blind Equality Achievement Month in Salt Lake City

To view an electronic copy of the signed proclamation, click here.