Ronald Reagan

“ Americans admire courage and respect independence. Every day some of our neighbors renew our appreciation of these qualities. They are the Americans who set forth about their daily business bearing the white cane.
The white cane is the badge of courage carried by those blind and visually impaired citizens who believe freedom and independence are meant for all Americans. The white cane tells the world that its bearer expects not pity but fairness and consideration-on the street, on the job, and everywhere Americans' paths cross. ”

“ Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 15, 1985, as White Cane Safety Day. I urge all Americans to salute the courage of those who carry the white cane and consider how each of us, in our work and in our daily rounds, can show our respect for these proud and able Americans. ”