WHEREAS, blindness and low vision affect millions of Americans, including an estimated 35,000 Maine people; and

WHEREAS, the white cane and guide dog serve as essential tools of independence, mobility, and safety for blind and low vision individuals, and their use is legally protected under Maine law as a signal to motorists to yield the right of way; and

WHEREAS, blind and low vision individuals contribute significantly to the social, cultural, and economic vitality of our state as they pursue meaningful careers in diverse professions, strengthen Maine’s workforce, raise families, and enrich our communities through their participation in all aspects of life; and

WHEREAS, we honor the resilience, wisdom, and lifelong contributions of older adults who are blind or low vision, and recognize their determination to maintain independence while navigating the unique challenges of aging with vision loss; and

WHEREAS, people with vision loss continue to encounter stigma, discrimination, and accessibility barriers due to misconceptions about their capabilities and needs; and

WHEREAS, we recognize the efforts of vision rehabilitation professionals, educators, self-advocates, and allies across Maine who work to advance equality and expand opportunities for people who are blind or low vision; and

WHEREAS, Blindness Awareness Month calls attention to the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and respect, and reminds us of the progress achieved through advocacy, education, and civil rights protections, as well as the work still to be done;

NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that I, Janet T. Mills, Governor of the state of Maine, do hereby proclaim October 2025 as

Blindness Awareness Month

throughout the state of Maine, and I call upon all residents to join in celebrating the value and contributions of blind and low vision Mainers, and to work together towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

In testimony whereof, I have caused the Great Seal of the State to be hereunto affixed GIVEN under my hand at Augusta this eighteenth day of September Two Thousand Twenty-Five