UCP of Western Massachusetts to Celebrate National White Cane Day on Oct. 15

PITTSFIELD — UCP of Western Massachusetts, an affiliate of United Cerebral Palsy Assoc., will host a community celebration for National White Cane Day on Wednesday, Oct. 15 from 2:30 to 4 p.m. in the courtyard at 75 South Church St. in Pittsfield. This annual observance recognizes the importance of the white cane as a symbol of independence for people who are blind or visually impaired and raises awareness about accessibility, mobility, and inclusion.

The event will feature an official mayoral proclamation by Mayor Peter Marchetti declaring Oct. 15 as White Cane Day in Pittsfield; the white cane challenge course, giving sighted participants the chance to experience navigating everyday activities with a cane while blindfolded with a spotter person; and UCP’s Assistive Technology department demonstrating ‘try it stations’ so that visual users can experience limited or low vision through technology. The department will have other practical devices for the low-vision community.

“White Cane Day is both a celebration of independence and an opportunity for education,” said Randy Kinnas, CEO of UCP of Western Massachusetts. “By inviting the public to participate in activities and conversations, we hope to build understanding and strengthen our commitment to accessibility and inclusion in our community.”

The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be provided. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held inside 75 South Church St. (the Clocktower Building).