The Vision Council Foundation and UOA Partner to Promote UV Safety for National Sunglasses Day

Wednesday, June 17 2026 | 09 h 12 min | News

The Vision Council Foundation and the United Opticians Association (UOA) are partnering to advance UV safety awareness ahead of National Sunglasses Day on June 27.

The annual campaign, led by The Vision Council Foundation, is designed to educate the public about UV protection as an important part of eye health and everyday wellness. This year, the UOA has joined the initiative, bringing the message further into optical practices and highlighting the role of opticians and eyecare providers in helping patients choose appropriate sunwear.

“Protecting your eyes from UV damage is one of the simplest things you can do for your long-term health, and National Sunglasses Day exists to make sure people everywhere know that,” said Ashley Mills, CEO of The Vision Council and The Vision Council Foundation. “The UOA’s support means we’re bringing that message directly into optical practices across the country, where it can make a real difference.”

The partnership coincides with the One Vision | One Voice | One UOA Leadership Conference, taking place June 25 to 27 in Chicago. The event brings together optical professionals and industry leaders and concludes on National Sunglasses Day.

Opticians Play Key Role in UV Awareness

The Vision Council Foundation and UOA say eyecare providers and opticians are central to the campaign, helping patients understand the risks of UV exposure and choose eyewear suited to their vision needs, lifestyle and personal style.

According to The Vision Council, approximately 30 million pairs of plano sunglasses are sold through optical stores each year, representing about 10% of the market. However, its research also indicates that more than 37% of U.S. adults currently go without adequate UV eye protection.

“Opticians are trusted guides in eye health, and National Sunglasses Day gives us the perfect opportunity to remind our patients and communities that protecting their vision from UV damage is a year-round priority,” said Gwen Cooper, Executive Director of The United Opticians Association.

Toolkits Available for Eyecare Providers

The Vision Council Foundation is offering free National Sunglasses Day toolkits for eyecare providers, optical industry members and consumers. The materials include social media graphics, fact sheets and customizable resources.

The toolkits are available at thevisioncouncilfoundation.org/national-sunglasses-day.

Consumers and industry members are also encouraged to mark National Sunglasses Day by posting a photo wearing their favourite sunglasses on June 27 using the hashtag #NationalSunglassesDay.

Source: The Vision Council

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