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

 
PROCLAMATION 8396--JULY 17, 2009

Proclamation 8396 of July 17, 2009
Captive Nations Week, 2009
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Fifty years ago, President Eisenhower issued a call of solidarity to
peoples across the world living under communist rule. This first Captive
Nations Week Proclamation expressed concern that too many people lacked
fundamental freedoms, and it affirmed that the people of the United
States stood alongside those who yearned to be free. Since this
declaration, more nations have chosen the path of self-determination and
respect for basic human rights. Brave American men and women have
contributed to this story, making great sacrifices while serving in our
Armed Forces or working in Government, private industry, and other
organizations.
The Cold War is now consigned to the history books, but the ideals that
President Eisenhower proclaimed remain vibrant and inspiring today. Just
as in years past, people still hope to have the freedom and opportunity
to pursue their dreams. People, young and old, still yearn to speak
their minds. Citizens still believe governments have an obligation to be
honest and transparent, uphold the rule of law, and allow civic
participation.
We regard these universal principles as guiding values, and we stand in
solidarity with those who aspire to live by them-not only because it is
right, but also because our Nation's fate is connected to that of other
nations. In an interdependent world, instability, disease, and hardship
abroad affect us here at home. Governments that are responsive to the
concerns of their citizens can better tackle these challenges and
contribute to a more secure, healthy, and prosperous world.
Nations must advance these values through example. At home and abroad,
the United States strives to honor the principles enshrined in our
Nation's founding documents.
The challenges of a new century require us to summon the full range of
human talents to move all nations forward. The United States stands with
all governments and peoples committed to unlocking the potential of
their people, and to peace, the rule of law, and respect for all
citizens.

[[Page 3673]]
123 STAT. 3673

The Congress, by Joint Resolution, approved July 17, 1959 (73 Stat.
212), has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation
designating the third week of July of each year as ``Captive Nations
Week.''
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim July 19 through July 25, 2009, as Captive
Nations Week. I call upon the people of the United States to reaffirm
our commitment to all those seeking dignity, freedom, and justice.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of
July, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
BARACK OBAMA