[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 123, 111th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

123 STAT. 3600
 
PROCLAMATION 8338--JAN. 13, 2009

Proclamation 8338 of January 13, 2009
Religious Freedom Day, 2009
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Religious freedom is the foundation of a healthy and hopeful society. On
Religious Freedom Day, we recognize the importance of the 1786 passage
of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom. We also celebrate the
first liberties enshrined in our Constitution' Bill of Rights, which
guarantee the free exercise of religion for all Americans and prohibit
an establishment of religion.

Our Nation was founded by people seeking haven from religious
persecution, and the religious liberty they found here remains one of
this land's greatest blessings. As Americans, we believe that all people
have inherent dignity and worth. Though we may profess different creeds
and worship in different manners and places, we respect each other's
humanity and expression of faith. People with diverse views can practice
their faiths here while living together in peace and harmony, carrying
on our Nation's noble tradition of religious freedom.
The United States also stands with religious dissidents and believers
from around the globe who practice their faith peacefully. Freedom is
not a grant of government or a right for Americans alone; it is the
birthright of every man, woman, and child throughout the world. No human
freedom is more fundamental than the right to worship in accordance with
one's conscience.
Religious Freedom Day is an opportunity to celebrate our legacy of
religious liberty, foster a culture of tolerance and peace, and renew
commitments to ensure that every person on Earth can enjoy these basic
human rights.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim January 16, 2009, as
Religious Freedom Day. I call on all Americans to reflect on the great
blessing of religious liberty, endeavor to preserve this freedom for
future generations, and commemorate this day with appropriate events and
activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirteenth day of
January, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.
GEORGE W. BUSH