[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 122, 110th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8218--JAN. 28, 2008

Proclamation 8218 of January 28, 2008
National African American History Month, 2008
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
During National African American History Month, we honor the
achievements and celebrate the rich heritage of African Americans.
Throughout our Nation's history, African Americans from all walks of
life have offered their talents to the betterment of American society.
Scholars such as Frederick Douglass and W.E.B. DuBois were early leaders
who placed great importance on educating all people about the need for
justice and racial equality. Athletes such as Jackie Robinson and Althea
Gibson persevered while breaking the color barrier and competing at the
highest levels of sports. Musicians like Nat King Cole and Billie
Holiday lifted the American spirit with their creativity and musical
gifts. Through their extraordinary accomplishments, these leaders helped
bring our Nation closer to fulfilling its founding ideals.
This year's theme, ``Carter G. Woodson and the Origins of
Multiculturalism,'' honors an educator who taught his fellow citizens
about the traditions and contributions of African Americans. His
dedication to educating Americans about cultural diversity initiated
this celebration of African-American history. Our Nation is now stronger
and more hopeful because generations of leaders like him have worked





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to help America live up to its promise of equality and the great truth
that all of God's children are created equal.
Throughout African American History Month, we celebrate the many
contributions African Americans have made to our Nation, and we are
reminded of their courage in their struggle to change the hearts and
minds of our citizens. While much progress has been made, we must
continue to work together to achieve the promise and vision of our great
Nation.
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 February 2008 as National
African American History Month. I call upon public officials, educators,
and all 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 twenty-eighth day
of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
second.
GEORGE W. BUSH