By Vanessa Rosalan, a Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments at Chelsea Public Schools 

CHELSEA, Mass. – "Can blind people take a bath? How do blind people cook their food? Can they get married?" These were some of the thoughtful questions posed by curious fourth graders from Sokolowski Elementary during their White Cane Safety Awareness Day assembly on October 21st. The event provided students with an eye-opening experience, offering insights into the lives of individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

Held in recognition of White Cane Safety Day, celebrated annually on October 15, the assembly was designed to raise awareness about the importance of the white cane as a symbol of independence for people with visual impairments. White Cane Safety Day, established in 1964, highlights the rights of people who are blind or visually impaired to move freely and independently using this vital tool. In Chelsea, several members of the community, including students, rely on the white cane as part of their daily lives.

Students raising their hands to answer a question at the White Cane Safety Awareness Day Assembly

The event featured two key speakers from the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind. Mr. Joey Buizon, Director of Programs and Services, explained the significance of the white cane and offered students practical advice on how to interact with individuals who use one. His talk emphasized the importance of respect and awareness, teaching students what to do—and avoid—when encountering a person using a white cane.

Dennis, a Chelsea Public Schools student, presents Massachusetts Director of Programs and Services Joey Buizon with some CPS “swag” after he spoke at the assembly at the Sokolowski School

Ms. Karen Nagle, a counselor with the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, introduced her guide dog, Patty, to the students of Hooks Elementary on October 15. She demonstrated how Patty helps her navigate obstacles such as doorways, pathways, and stairs, emphasizing the vital role guide dogs play in maintaining the safety and independence of individuals with visual impairments. Ms. Nagle also stressed that when guide dogs are on a leash, they are working and should not be distracted or touched. She highlighted the importance of always asking the owner's permission before petting their dog.

The assembly, organized by Naomi Zabot, an Orientation and Mobility Specialist at Shore Educational Collaborative, and Vanessa Rosalan, a Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments at Chelsea Public Schools, offered an invaluable opportunity for students from Hooks and Sokolowski Elementary Schools to develop greater empathy and understanding. Events like these help foster a more inclusive and respectful community by breaking down misconceptions about blindness and visual impairments.  

CPS teacher Vanessa Rosalan speaking with students at the White Cane Awareness Day assembly

As Mr. Buizon reassured the students, "Yes, people who are blind or visually impaired can live a life like their sighted peers too. I am happily married with kids, I can cook, and of course, I do take a bath."