PROCLAMATION 7698—SEPT. 1, 2003
117 STAT. 3077
for our Nation, and safe, healthy, and happy lives for our children, our children must learn that avoiding harmful substances is an ongoing responsibility. As we work to educate our next generation about making healthy choices, we renew our commitment to the American family. 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 September 22, 2003, as Family Day. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day by engaging in activities to strengthen the relationships between parents and children and help fight against substance abuse and risky behaviors. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentyeighth day of August, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-eighth. GEORGE W. BUSH
Proclamation 7698 of September 1, 2003
National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, 2003 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Alcohol addiction and drug addiction continue to challenge our Nation. Addiction to alcohol or drugs destroys family ties, friendship, ambition, and moral conviction, and reduces the richness of life to a single destructive desire. During National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, we seek to remind all Americans, particularly those who struggle with alcohol or drug addiction, that recovery is possible. This year’s theme, ‘‘Join the Voices of Recovery: Celebrating Health,’’ salutes the thousands of Americans currently striving to address their alcohol or drug addiction, and the many professionals, volunteers, clergy, community groups, friends, and family members who support others in overcoming addiction. For the addicted, the fight is an ongoing struggle for their own lives. The process of treatment and recovery is personal, and each individual’s treatment needs are different. And as a result, treatment programs must address a wide range of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. When properly tailored, alcohol and drug addiction treatment can be very effective. Last year, approximately 100,000 individuals who sought treatment for alcohol and drug addiction were unable to receive the help they needed. To address this problem, I have proposed a new initiative, Access to Recovery, that will increase the availability and effectiveness of treatment programs. With $600 million, an additional 300,000 Americans will gain access to needed treatment over the next 3 years. Access to Recovery will build on existing alcohol and drug treatment services by offering greater choices to those seeking treatment. Our Na-
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