[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 46 (Monday, November 19, 2001)]
[Pages 1649-1650]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7500--National American Indian Heritage Month, 2001

November 12, 2001

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    The strength of our Nation comes from its people. As the early 
inhabitants of this great land, the native peoples of North America 
played a unique role in the shaping of our Nation's history and culture. 
During this month when we celebrate Thanksgiving, we especially 
celebrate their heritage and the contributions of American Indian and 
Alaska Native peoples to this Nation.
    Since our Nation's birth, pluralism and diversity have been 
hallmarks of the American experience and success. In 1782, the Founding 
Fathers chose as our national motto ``E Pluribus Unum,'' which means 
``out of many, one.'' Today, America's unity, derived from a mix of many 
diverse cultures and people, grandly embodies the vision expressed by 
our Founders. American Indian and Alaska Native cultures have made 
remarkable contributions to our national identity. Their unique 
spiritual, artistic, and literary contributions, together with their 
vibrant customs and celebrations, enliven and enrich our land.
    As we move into the 21st century, American Indians and Alaska 
Natives will play a vital role in maintaining our Nation's strength and 
prosperity. Almost half of America's Native American tribal leaders have 
served in the United States Armed Forces, following in the footsteps of 
their forebears who distinguished themselves during the World Wars and 
the conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf.
    Their patriotism again appeared after the September 11 attacks, as 
American Indian law enforcement officers volunteered to serve in air 
marshal programs. On the local level, American Indians and Alaska 
Natives are strengthening their communities through education and 
business development, opening the doors to opportunity, and contributing 
to a brighter future for all.
    My Administration will continue to work with tribal governments on a 
sovereign to sovereign basis to provide Native Americans with new 
economic and educational opportunities. Indian education programs will 
remain a priority, so that no American child, including no Native 
American child, is left behind. We will protect and honor tribal 
sovereignty and help to stimulate economic development in reservation 
communities. We will work

[[Page 1650]]

with the American Indians and Alaska Natives to preserve their freedoms, 
as they practice their religion and culture.
    During National American Indian Heritage Month, I call on all 
Americans to learn more about the history and heritage of the Native 
peoples of this great land. Such actions reaffirm our appreciation and 
respect for their traditions and way of life and can help to preserve an 
important part of our culture for generations yet to come.
    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 November 2001 as National 
American Indian Heritage Month. I call upon the people of the United 
States to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twelfth day of 
November, in the year of our Lord two thousand one, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
sixth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 9:34 a.m., November 14, 
2001]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
November 15.