[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8555--SEPT. 3, 2010

Proclamation 8555 of September 3, 2010
Labor Day, 2010
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Working Americans are the foundation of our Nation's continued economic
success and prosperity. From constructing the first transcontinental
railroad to shaping our city skylines, they have built our country and
propelled it forward. Through great innovation and perseverance, our
labor force has forged America as a land of limitless possibility and a
leader in the global marketplace. On Labor Day, we honor the enduring
values and immeasurable contributions of working men and women today and
throughout our history.
As we recognize the contributions of the American workers who have built
our country, we must continue to protect their vital role and that of
organized labor in our national life. Workers have not always possessed
the same rights and benefits many enjoy today. Over time, they have
fought for and gained fairer pay, better benefits, and safer work
environments. From the factory floors during the Industrial Revolution
to the shopping aisles of today's superstores, organized labor has
provided millions of hard-working men and women with a voice in the
workplace and an unprecedented path into our strong middle class. By
advocating on behalf of our families, labor unions have helped advance
the safe and equitable working conditions that every worker deserves.
Today, as we emerge from the worst recession since the Great Depression,
far too many American workers remain without a job. With every work hour
lost and every plant closure and layoff, families and communities
struggle to make ends meet and face difficult decisions about how to
stay afloat. Yet, in the face of this tremendous challenge, our workers
have renewed their commitment to achieving the American dream by
training and educating themselves for careers crucial to our long-term
competitiveness. To rebuild our economy, my Administration is focusing
on job training and investing in industries that cannot be outsourced.
By focusing on recovery at home, we are saving or creating millions of
jobs in America and supporting the working men and women who will drive
our 21st-century economy. More remains to be done, but we have taken
important steps forward toward recovery.
American workers have always been ready to roll up their sleeves, clock
in, and earn an honest living. That steady determination is why I have
confidence in the American economy and confidence that we can overcome
the challenges we face. There is no greater example of our country's
resolve and resilience than that of our workers. As we celebrate Labor
Day, we honor those who have advanced our Nation's strength and
prosperity--American workers.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 6, 2010, as
Labor Day. I call upon all public officials and people of the United
States to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and
activities that acknowledge the tremendous contributions of working
Americans and their families.

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
fifth.
BARACK OBAMA