For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
January 31, 2003
National African American History Month, 2003
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
African Americans have played central roles in some of the most
triumphant and courageous moments in our Nation's history. During
National African American History Month, we honor the rich heritage of
African Americans and pay tribute to their many contributions to our
Nation. As we celebrate this year's theme, "The Souls of Black Folk:
Centennial Reflections," we remember the successes and challenges of
our past. We also resolve to honor the achievements and legacy of these
proud citizens by continuing to improve our society so that it fully
lives up to our founding ideals.
In 1915, Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson recognized the need for our
country to gain a more complete and informed understanding of our
past. He founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and
History and established the first Negro History Week to emphasize that
"We have a wonderful history behind us . . . " Through the pioneering
efforts of Dr. Woodson and the hard work of the Association, this
observance officially became Black History Month in 1976.
For generations, African Americans have strengthened our Nation by
urging reforms, overcoming obstacles, and breaking down barriers. We
see the greatness of America in those who have risen above injustice
and enriched our society, a greatness reflected in the resolve of
Jackie Robinson, the intellect of W.E.B. DuBois, and the talent of
Louis Armstrong. We also gain a deeper appreciation for the
AfricanAmerican experience in the writings of James Baldwin, Ralph
Ellison, and Zora Neale Hurston, as well as in the music of Mahalia
Jackson, Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, and countless others.
African Americans reflect a proud legacy of courage and dedication
that has helped to guide our Nation's success and prosperity.
Visionary leaders like Frederick Douglass, Thurgood Marshall, and
Martin Luther King, Jr., possessed a clarity of purpose and were
instrumental in exposing and addressing the issues that threatened our
founding principles. The battle for freedom, equality, and opportunity
was fought on the front lines by strong figures such as Harriet Tubman
and Fannie Lou Hamer, as well as many other everyday heroes who helped
to lead this Nation to a more hopeful and just society.
As we recall these remarkable individuals, we also recognize that,
despite our progress, racial prejudice still exists in America. As a
Nation and as individuals, we must be vigilant in responding to
discrimination wherever we find it. By promoting diversity,
understanding, and opportunity, we will continue our efforts to build a
society where every person, of every race, can realize the promise of
America.
This month, I encourage all citizens to gain awareness of and
appreciation for African-American history. As we remember this
important part of our Nation's past, we look to a bright future,
recognizing the potential of an America united in purpose, guided by
spirit, and dedicated to equality.
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 February 2003 as
National African American History Month. I call upon public officials,
educators, librarians, and all of the people of the United States to
observe this month with appropriate programs and activities that
highlight and honor the myriad of contributions that African Americans
have made to our Nation.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtyfirst
day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twentyseventh.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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