Proc. 8037 Title 3--The President people of Kyrgyzstan drove a corrupt regime from power and voted for democratic change. Ending 16 years of civil war and interim governments, the people of Liberia were able to go to the polls, electing Africa's first fe- male president. The courageous citizens of Iraq reached yet another impor- tant milestone in their iourney towards democracy by forming a national unity government based upon the constitution they approved last October. In Lebanon, citizens recovered their independence and chose their mem- bers of parliament in free elections. That newfound independence has come under attack in recent days from terrorists and their state sponsors, who see freedom and democracy as a threat. The United States and its al- lies will stand with those in Lebanon who continue to struggle for their independence and sovereignty and who refuse to give over their country to extremism and terror. At this critical time in the history of freedom, no nation can evade the de- mands of human dignity. In countries like Iran, North Korea, t]elarus, Burma, Syria, Zimbabwe, and Cuba, governments must become accountable to their citizens and embrace democracy. The desire for freedom is written in every human heart, and we can be confident that in this century free- dom will continue to prevail. This week is also an opportunity to honor those who have stood against oppression and advanced the fundamental right of all to live in liberty. The courage and sacrifice of these men and women reflect the fact that tyranny can never destroy the desire to be free. Inspired by their example, we will carry on their work to help others realize the universal gift of liberty and to spread the light of democracy to every corner of the world. The Congress, by Joint Resolution approved July 17, \177959 (73 Stat. 2\1772), has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation desig- nating the third week in July of each year as "Captive Nations Week." NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim July \1776 through July 22, 2006, as Captive Nations Week. I call upon the people of the United States to reaffirm their commitment to all those seeking liberty, iustice, and self-determination. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirteenth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 8037 of July 25, 2006 Anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act, 2006 By the President of the United States of Arnerica A Proclamation The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has helped fulfill the promise of America for millions of individuals living with disabilities. The anniver- sary of this landmark legislation is an important opportunity to celebrate our progress over the last 16 years and the many contributions individuals with disabilities make to our country. 110
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