123STA T . 3 659PROCL A M AT I O N8 39 0—JU N E 2 , 2009 DuringAf ri ca n - A me rican M u s icA p precia t i o n Mont h,w e reca l l the k nown an d unknown musicians who helped create this musical his- tor y.T heir contri b utions help illuminate the human e x perience and spirit, and they help us reflect on our N ation ’ s ongoing narrati v e. N OW ,T HER E F ORE, I , B ARA CK OBAMA, P resident of the U nited S tates of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Con- stitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim J une 20 0 9 as African-American Music Appreciation Month. I call upon public of- ficials, educators, and all the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate activities and programs that raise aware- ness and foster appreciation of music which is composed, arranged, and performed by African Americans. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of June, in the year of our L ord two thousand nine, and of the Inde- pendence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty- third. BARACK OBAMA Proclam a ti o n8390 o fJu n e2, 2009 Nation a lC a r i b b e an -Am eri c an H erita g e M ont h,20 0 9BythePr e sid e n t of the U nited S t a tes of Am eri c a A Proc l amation Caribbean Americans have made lasting contributions to our Nation’s culture and history, and the month of June has been set aside to honor their cultural, linguistic, ethnic, and social diversity. G enerations of immigrants have preserved the traditions of their home- lands, and these traditions have defined our Nation’s identity. Carib- bean Americans bring a uni q ue and vibrant culture. This multilingual and multiethnic tradition has strengthened our social fabric and en- riched the diversity of our Nation. Millions of individuals in the United States have Caribbean roots. Un- fortunately some Caribbean Americans were forced to our country as slaves
others arrived of their own volition. All have sought the prom- ise of a brighter tomorrow for themselves and their children. In their pursuit of success, Caribbean Americans exhibit the traits all Americans pri z e
determination, a devotion to community, and patriot- ism. They have made their mark in every facet of our society, from art to athletics and science to service. Caribbean Americans have also safe- guarded our Nation in the United States Armed Forces. This month we also recognize the critical relationship the United States maintains with Caribbean nations. In a world of increasing com- munication and connectivity, this friendship has become even more important. We are neighbors, partners, and friends; we share the same aspirations for our children; and we strive for the very same freedoms. Together, we can meet the common challenges we face. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Con-
