PROCLAMATION 5084—AUG. 25, 1983 97 STAT. 1611 ices to the marketplace, create jobs, and provide training to thousands of workers. Our challenge today is to enhance the ability of minority Americans to par- ticipate more fully in the market economy and to achieve greater economic independence. In my December 17, 1982, statement, I promised to designate the first full week in October each year to honor the many valuable contributions mi- nority businessmen and businesswomen make to our society. NOW, THEREFORE, I, RONALD REAGAN, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the week of October 2 through October 8, 1983, as Minority Enterprise Development Week, and I call upon all Ameri- cans to join together with minority business enterprises across the country in appropriate observances. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 11th day of August, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and eighth. RONALD REAGAN Proclamation 5084 of August 25, 1983 National Hispanic Heritage Week, 1983 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation National Hispanic Heritage Week pays tribute to a rich part of America's cultural tradition, offering all Americans a welcome opportunity to recog- nize the qualities and contributions of Hispanic Americans from earliest co- lonial times to the present. The dedication to principles of loyalty, patrio- tism, strong religious faith and devotion to family displayed by Hispanic Americans is basic to the American way of life. Hispanic Americans have played an important role in the development of our rich cultural heritage and every State has benefitted from their influ- ence. They have distinguished themselves in the arts and sciences, educa- tion, industry, government and many other areas of productive endeavor. Indeed, they are a part of all that makes America great. Just as their forefathers sought a dream in the New World, Hispanic Ameri- cans have realized their dreams in our great Nation and will continue to do so. Their dedication to higher purposes reflects what is best in the Ameri- can spirit. Through the years, Hispanic American citizens have risen to the call of duty in defense of liberty and freedom. Their bravery is well-known and has been demonstrated time and again, dating back to the aid rendered by General Bernardo de Galvez during the American Revolution. In recognition of the many achievements of the Hispanic American Commu- nity, the Congress, by joint resolution approved September 17, 1968 (82 Stat. 848), authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclama- 36 USC 169f.
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