Skagit County commissioners on Oct. 14 adopted a proclamation designating Oct. 15, 2025, as White Cane Awareness Day and heard presentations from local Lions Club members and blind-advocacy organizations about mobility tools and services for people who are blind or have low vision.

The proclamation, moved by Commissioner Browning and seconded by Commissioner Wiesen, passed unanimously with all three commissioners voting in favor. The resolution urges schools, employers and the public to recognize the white cane as a tool of independence and to expand employment and training opportunities for blind residents.

Colette Arbisson, identified in the meeting as president of the Amcoris Lions, said the white cane represents “independence, mobility, and safety.” Arbisson told the commissioners the Lions Club International and local partners work to prevent avoidable blindness and to connect blind residents with services.

Andy Arbenson, introduced as president of the Washington Council of the Blind, described how canes and guide dogs support daily navigation and independence. “To me, [the white cane] is a mobility tool,” Arbenson said. He recounted learning cane travel after vision loss from diabetes and urged public awareness about motorists yielding to people using white canes or guide dogs.

Fred Barnum, vice president of the Skagit County and Island County Council of the Blind, described practical benefits such as boarding transit and regaining independence after losing driving privileges. Roger Felton, a Lions volunteer, described outreach efforts to teach children about the cane and distribute informational materials.

The proclamation text read during the meeting referenced a 1964 joint resolution of Congress that designates a White Cane Safety Day and called on local agencies and employers to facilitate inclusion and employment for blind residents. Commissioner Browning said personal experience in her family underscored the importance of community support for people with vision impairments; Commissioner Wiesen and Commissioner Janicki also thanked volunteers and advocates for their work.

The board moved immediately from the presentation to adopt the proclamation by voice vote; the clerk recorded the motion as carrying 3-0.

The county said it will continue partnership work with local consumer organizations, including the Washington Council of the Blind and Lions volunteers, to promote awareness and resources for blind and low-vision residents.