Arkansas Celebrates White Cane Safety Day at the State Capitol on October 14
White Cane Safety Day is an annual observance recognizing the significance of the white cane as a symbol of independence, safety, and mobility for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
This year’s program will feature remarks, musical performances, historical reflections, and personal stories that highlight the importance of mobility, accessibility, and the work of partner organizations that support Arkansans who are blind or visually impaired. Representatives from agencies and organizations supporting Arkansans who are blind or visually impaired will be present to share resources and answer questions.
The event is sponsored by Arkansas Workforce Connections’ Division of Services for the Blind and other blindness agencies and organizations across Arkansas.
A recording of the event will be available through AIRS Radio, ensuring accessibility for individuals statewide. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Event Details
What: White Cane Safety Day 2026
When: Wednesday, October 14, 2026
Time: 10-11:30 a.m.
Where: Arkansas State Capitol, Second Floor Rotunda
Address: 500 Woodlane Street, Little Rock, AR 72201
Agenda
Emcee: Rayvern Lewis
- Welcome: Nathan Winter, Interim Director, Division of Services for the Blind
- Invocation: Anthony Ruffin, Vending Manager, Vending Facility Program
- National Anthem: Allison Howard, Student, Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind
- Proclamation: Dr. John McAllister, Assistant Professor, Coordinator of Orientation and Mobility
- Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind: Dakota Dalton, Blind Department Lead Teacher
- Little Rock Founders Lions Club: Bill Johnson, Past District Governor
- Arkansas Council of the Blind: Joyce Wilmer, President
- World Services for the Blind: Eric Yarberry, President and CEO
- World Services for the Blind: Josh Warren, Song on Guitar
- Arkansas National Federation of the Blind: Charles Tate, President
- The History of White Cane Safety Day: Gustavo Manazales, Rehabilitation Manager, Vending Facility Program, Division of Services for the Blind
- “What the White Cane Means to Me”: Wesley Hillman, Vice President, NFB Arkansas Chapter
- “What the White Cane Means to Me, a Veteran?”: Chris Sammons, Former President, Blinded Veterans Association, Arkansas Region
- “What My White Cane Means to Me”: Sandy Mews, Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind
- Readers Theatre: Jolene Adams, Luna Hudson, Allison Howard, Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind
- Cindy Scott-Huisman: Cantrell Gallery, Owner; National Federation of the Blind, State Vice President; Local Chapter President, World Services for the Blind Board
- Arkansas Information Reading Services (AIRS) and Friends of AIRS: Theresa Bertram, Director, Representative, Division of Services for the Blind
- Closing Remarks: Deon Harris, Asst. Director, Division of Services for the Blind
