Cary Shuman Photos
The Town of Winthrop held a sign dedication ceremony for Jerry DeFranza near the Pillar House on Walden Street, where he lived for several years.
Mr. DeFranza was known for his outstanding lifelong advocacy for people with vision loss.
Veterans Officer Phil Ronan presided over the ceremony.
Town Council President Jim Letterie said, “Jerry would have been so appreciative of this [honor]. I can’t thank John Morgan enough for bringing this great idea to my attention.”
“Jerry came to so many Council meetings over the years, just bringing awareness to the visually impaired, and bringing awareness especially to White Cane,” said Letterie. “The fact that we’re able to do this on Oct. 15 [White Cane Awareness Day] is just another testament to that. This is a small gesture on the town’s part for a man who was a giant in his field and did so much to help raise awareness for people with disabilities.”
Sen. Lydia Edwards praised Mr. DeFranza’s advocacy for the disabled and “his dedication to making sure that our community is inclusive.”
“It takes a true activist and a person with a heart to make sure that their legacy lasts for generations, and that’s why we’re putting up this sign, to remember those people who put through the effort so the next generation knows why they have it easier, why they have it more inclusive, why we’re making sure that our buildings and our walkways are including them.”