Georgians from around the state came to Athens to celebrate the white cane—a tool used by people who are blind to lead independent lives.
White Cane Awareness Day is celebrated across the nation on October 15th, but a group of about 50 Georgians recognized it a day early at the Athens-Clarke County Library on Tuesday. 17-year-old Christopher Morgan from Douglas County, Georgia, read the history of the white cane for the assembled crowd. He says the development of the white cane was an important step for people who are blind.
“It’s really surprising how recent all this is, it wasn’t really until 60, 70, 80 years ago that the white cane really became a thing,” he says. “For me, it’s a universal part of my life. It wasn’t always here, and that’s scary to think about.”
White Cane Awareness Day was officially recognized at the state level in 2024. Morgan was also joined by fellow Douglas County resident Caleigh Caston, who says that for her, the white cane is more than just a tool.
“For me, it feels like a symbol of independence. It’s a reminder for me that ‘I have this, I can do this, I have a way to be on my own and do things on my own and be independent.’” She says. “As long as I have my cane with me, I’m good.”
In Georgia, people who are blind are legally entitled to use a white cane, and they also have the right of way when crossing the street.
The White Cane Awareness Day celebration in Athens Clarke County was organized by local nonprofit Multiple Choices for Independent Living.
