For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
June 24, 2003
Black Music Month, 2003
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
For centuries, black artists have created or inspired distinctively
American musical styles. During Black Music Month, we celebrate the
ways that African-American music has helped shape American society and
reflect the character of our Nation, and we recognize the pioneers who
spearheaded these important musical forms.
Throughout history, African-American music has shown the social
climate of the time. From the days of slavery and discrimination,
through the progress of the Civil Rights movement, to today, black
music has told the story of the African-American experience. In
addition to giving voice to black struggles, faith, and joys,
African-American music has helped also to bring people together.
Before our Nation's strides toward equal justice, music such as jazz
and blues provided a venue in which people of all races could be judged
by their talent, and not the color of their skin.
The people who sang the earliest African-American music knew the
worst of human cruelty and earthly injustice. In spirituals, work
songs, and shouts, we hear the pain of separation and the bitterness of
oppression. We also hear courage, and the comfort and strength of a
faith that trusts God to right every wrong and wipe away every tear.
These songs were used to share stories, spread ideas, preserve history,
and establish community.
Early work songs and spirituals laid the creative foundation for
the development of gospel, blues, and jazz. In black churches
throughout the south, gospel offered a medium to share the good news.
The beauty of both gospel and the blues lies in their power to express
emotions that can be felt as well as heard. The blues were first
popularized in America by W.C. Handy. A classically trained musician,
this "Father of the Blues" helped to compose and distribute blues music
throughout the country. His music continues to touch people today.
In the early 20th century, the progression to jazz took place all
over the country, from the deep south of New Orleans and the
Mississippi Delta to northern cities such as Chicago and New York.
Black artists migrated to Harlem, New York in large numbers, creating a
culturally diverse hub for black art, writing, and music known as the
Harlem Renaissance. Harlem became a place of energy and magic, and
timeless music emerged from this period. The heart of the Harlem
Renaissance is reflected in the original and authentic music of such
influential figures as Bessie Smith, Count Basie, and Fletcher
Henderson.
African Americans continued to influence popular music through the
1940s and 50s, with the emergence of rhythm and blues and rock and
roll. These revolutionary styles built upon various forms of
African-American music, fusing elements of jazz, blues, and gospel.
African-American music continues to influence the American music
scene today with styles such as rap and hip-hop. As we celebrate the
many creative and inspiring African-American artists whose efforts have
enhanced our Nation, we recognize their enduring legacy and look to a
future of continued musical achievement.
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 June 2003 as Black
Music Month. I encourage Americans of all backgrounds to learn more
about the heritage of black musicians, and to celebrate the remarkable
role they have played in our history and culture.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth
day of June, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-seventh.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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