The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) hosted its annual White Cane Day celebration on Oct. 14 at the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI) in Austin, the agency said in a news release.
The community event was held to educate the public about blindness, recognize the independence of the blind and visually impaired community, and honor its contributions, according to the release. The agency said the celebration, held during National Disability Employment Awareness Month, is part of its Texas HireAbility Campaign to promote the benefits of hiring people with disabilities.
“On White Cane Day, we celebrate the independence, achievements, and contributions of Texans who are blind or visually impaired,” TWC Chairman Joe Esparza said in the release. “At TWC, we’re working every day to ensure all Texans have the opportunity to pursue a meaningful career, build a pathway to prosperity, and reach their full potential.”
The program included remarks from TSBVI Superintendent Emily Coleman, a reading of the Governor’s Proclamation by Ron Lucey of the Governor’s Committee on Disabilities, and a reading of the Mayor’s Proclamation by representatives of the City of Austin, TWC said.
“The white cane represents the strength, independence, and determination of an important part of our Texas workforce,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. He said the agency is committed to making sure Texans who are blind or visually impaired have access to the training, tools and support they need to build careers and succeed in the workplace.
TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett said White Cane Day recognizes the talent that Texans who are blind or visually impaired bring to the state’s workforce. “The Lone Star State is at its strongest when every Texan has the opportunity to contribute their skills,” he said.
According to the agency, festivities included a national anthem performance by the TSBVI choir, a petting zoo, more than 35 exhibitor booths and musical performances by Sound Collective, Java Jam and DJ Damond Stewart. The public was also invited to join two White Cane Day marches across Austin.
TWC said next year’s White Cane Day celebration will take place Oct. 13, 2027. A calendar of events and information about Texas HireAbility is available on the agency’s Texas HireAbility webpage.