HONOLULU – Over 200 participants in the 33rd annual White Cane Walk were decked in a black T-shirt featuring the words “Never Back Down,” designed by Waipahu High School student Jayzen Carlos, who won the first-ever T-shirt design contest for the event.
The event — which was organized by the Department of Human Services’ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Ho‘opono Services for the Blind — aims to raise awareness about the white cane and its vital role in promoting independence, safety and mobility for individuals who are blind or have low vision.
Carlos, 18, who is visually impaired, said his design was inspired by YouTuber Nick Eh 30, who always says “never give up and never back down” in his videos.
“‘Never back down’ means to me that I keep pushing forward and I know I can do hard things,” Carlos said.
Participants began and ended their walk at the State Capitol Rotunda in downtown Honolulu, celebrating a shared commitment to inclusion, accessibility and community.
“The white cane is more than a symbol of mobility, it represents confidence, courage, and the right of every person to move through the world safely and freely. Today’s White Cane Walk through downtown Honolulu reminds us all, especially our drivers, to stay alert and respectful of every pedestrian using a white cane,” said Hawai‘i Department of Human Services Director Ryan Yamane.
Dozens of students with visual impairments from public schools across O‘ahu participated in the event along with their teachers and school staff.
“It’s very important for our students to be together and be able to practice their white cane skills with other students who are visually impaired, but also to meet others in the community who are living their lives with their canes as well,” said Jeannie Camacho, a teacher for the visually impaired and a certified orientation and mobility specialist with the Hawai‘i State Department of Education.
The event also reminded Hawai‘i motorists to stay alert, exercise caution, and show respect for pedestrians using the white cane.
“It’s such a great event because the students get to meet their peers, but also adults who are blind. So those are kind of role models for them,” Amy Downard, who is also a teacher for the visually impaired and a certified orientation and mobility specialist with the Hawai‘i State Department of Education for nearly 30 years, said. “Downstairs at the Capitol, there’s a blind vendor. So we can say this might be a job you might have in the future. So it’s really important that they’re able to attend and participate. And to get here, a lot of times we’ll use the city bus or Handi-Van. So they’re practicing their transportation skills on how to get here, too.”
This year’s event also featured a resource fair in the rotunda, bringing together organizations and service providers who support Hawai‘i’s blind and visually impaired community.
“Never give up on your dreams and never give up on your goals. Just keep pushing forward,” Carlos said.
