PROCLAMATION 6869—MAR. 1, 1996 110 STAT. 4507 Erin transformed our cities, stimulating industry and commerce from New York to Boston to Chicago. In pursuing the American Dream, they set an example of courage, hard work, and determination that was to be followed again and again by hopeful newcomers. Today, Irish Americans celebrate this history and the contributions that their brethren have made to all aspects of American life—providing leadership in Government, the law, business, finance, literature, and the arts. Renewed interest in Gaelic culture has led to university courses in Irish studies, and hundreds of Saint Patrick's Day parades across the country attest to the vigor of Irish American communities. This month and throughout the year, let us recognize the gifts brought to America by children of Ireland and honor the strengths they have added to our national character. In tribute to all Irish Americans, the Congress, by Public Law 103-379, has designated March 1996 as "Irish-American Heritage Month" and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this month. NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, 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 March 1996 as Irish-American Heritage Month. I call upon all the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of March, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twentieth. WILLIAM J. CLINTON Proclamation 6869 of March 1, 1996 Save Your Vision Week, 1996 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Vision is a remarkable gift. Our eyes allow us to read, to see the faces of our loved ones, and to experience many of life's greatest pleasures. Too often, we take our sight for granted and must be reminded that our eyes require regular care and attention. The more we learn about preventing eye disease and vision loss, the better equipped we will be to take care of these vital organs. Many young people suffer from vision-related learning disabilities that jeopardize their academic success. However, with early intervention, such sight problems are often easily correctable. Senior citizens, too, are particularly vulnerable to eye difficulties, but we are fortunate that advances in medical research are improving our understanding of the diseases that often rob older Americans of their sight. As a result of these new technologies and discoveries in the field of eye care, many diseases that would have caused permanent sight loss just decades ago can now be treated with excellent prospects for full
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