The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 10, 2015

Presidential Proclamation -- Pan American Day and Pan American Week, 2015

PAN AMERICAN DAY AND PAN AMERICAN WEEK, 2015
 
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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
 
A PROCLAMATION

One hundred and twenty-five years ago, delegates from countries throughout the Western Hemisphere came together to establish the International Union of American Republics, the forerunner to what is today the oldest regional international organization in the world:  the Organization of American States.  In the years since, our nations have collaborated to address regional challenges and improve the lives of people across the Americas.  On Pan American Day and during Pan American Week, we reaffirm our hemisphere's enduring friendship, and we recommit to working as equal partners to support robust civil societies and expand opportunity.
 
The United States and our regional neighbors are bound by our mutual desire for peace and stability, and the common yearning of all our peoples -- to build a better life for themselves and their families.  We share vibrant people-topeople connections and extensive economic links.  These ties are vital to our security and prosperity, and when we work together to strengthen them, we help ensure a brighter future for the next generation.
 
My Administration is dedicated to joining with our Pan American partners to promote and protect human rights, open markets, expand fair trade, and advance the values of democracy and freedom.  Last December, we began a new chapter in this commitment.  In the most significant changes to our policy in more than 50 years, the United States is beginning to normalize our relations with Cuba.  As we extend a hand of friendship to the Cuban people, we have the potential to lift up a nation and end a legacy of mistrust in our hemisphere.
 
We continue to expand trade among the nations of the Americas because we know when we allow businesses to grow their markets it extends opportunity to a wider circle of people.  We are fostering small business connections throughout the Americas and bolstering women-owned and managed enterprises.  Through the 100,000 Strong in the Americas initiative, the United States is striving to increase educational exchanges that open doors to new markets, innovative research, and region-wide prosperity.  And as our nations face common energy and environmental concerns, my Administration is working with leaders and experts from the region to ensure every person in the Western Hemisphere will have access to the electricity they need at a price they can afford -- in a manner that is socially responsible and environmentally beneficial.
  
As we head into this week, I will attend the Summit of the Americas in Panama.  As leaders from across the Pan American community come together, we will continue our work to address the shared challenges our countries face today.  When our people -- our leaders, our civil society members, and all the sons and daughters of the Americas -- join in a spirit of mutual interest and mutual respect, we can build a future of greater peace, security, and possibility for every person who calls the
Americas home.
 
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 14, 2015, as Pan American Day and April 12 through April 18, 2015, as Pan American Week.  I urge the Governors of the 50 States, the Governor of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the officials of the other areas under the flag of the United States of America to honor these observances with appropriate ceremonies and activities. 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 10, 2015

Presidential Proclamation -- National Volunteer Week, 2015

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK, 2015
 
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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
 
A PROCLAMATION

As a Nation, our greatest resource is our people.  We each have the power to strengthen the fabric of our society and make the world a better place.  Every day, Americans across the country realize this enormous potential through service to others and by giving back to their communities.  During National Volunteer Week, we recognize those who embrace a life of active, energetic, and engaged citizenship, and we reaffirm our belief that all people have something to contribute to the American story.

This spirit of service is deeply embedded in our culture and vital to our national character.  It reflects the idea that we are each our brothers' and our sisters' keepers, and it is a core part of being an American.  Through service, ordinary people can make an extraordinary impact.  In times of tragedy, volunteers are a source of comfort and resilience; in places of great need, they offer hope and renew our faith that a brighter day lies ahead; and in small neighborhoods and bustling cities, these dedicated individuals help build ladders of opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds.  Volunteers -- often with few resources and little recognition -- make enormous sacrifices to lift up the people around them as well as those they may never meet.  As they do, they give new life to the values that bind us together as Americans and to the promise that those who love their country can change it.
 
My Administration is working to empower more Americans with opportunities to give back to their neighborhoods and to our country, and we are committed to supporting those who already do.  That is why we created a task force to find new ways to expand and improve national service.  And last year we launched the Employers of National Service initiative because we know those who are passionate about making a difference in their communities have the talents and experience to bolster our Nation's workforce.  Through the Corporation for National and Community Service, we are investing in programs like AmeriCorps and Senior Corps, and we have expanded the scope of these opportunities -- initiatives such as School Turnaround AmeriCorps, justice AmeriCorps, and STEM AmeriCorps are focusing on some of our country's most pressing needs.
 
The unending task of perfecting our Nation does not fall to any one person or to our Government alone -- and the solutions to the problems we face do not lie beyond our reach.  We must enlist all Americans in the effort to build a better future for the next generation, and we should each make service a lifelong commitment.  Together, we can work to meet our Nation's challenges, not just for one day, but every day.  This week, let us renew our commitment to this important cause and rededicate ourselves to the work ahead.
 
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 12 through April 18, 2015, as National Volunteer Week.  I call upon all Americans to observe this week by volunteering in service projects across our country and pledging to make service a part of their daily lives.  To find a service opportunity nearby, visit www.Serve.gov.
 
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 08, 2015

Presidential Proclamation -- National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, 2015

NATIONAL FORMER PRISONER OF WAR RECOGNITION DAY, 2015
 
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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
 
A PROCLAMATION

For more than two centuries, courageous patriots have fought and sacrificed to secure the freedoms that define our Nation's character and shape our way of life.  With honor and distinction, they have borne the burdens of defending these values, enduring tremendous hardship so that we might know a freer, safer, more peaceful world.  On National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, we honor the women and men who traded their liberty -- and sometimes their lives -- to protect our own, and we acknowledge the profound debt of gratitude we owe these extraordinary members of our Armed Forces.
 
Thousands of American servicemen and women have experienced unimaginable trials and profound cruelty as prisoners of war.  Many suffered mental and physical torture.  Often they faced starvation, isolation, and the uncertainty of indefinite captivity.  But even in their darkest moments, these heroes displayed courage and determination.  They met immense anguish with an indomitable resolve and stood fast for the principles in which they believed.  Their sacrifice represents what is best about our people and challenges us to live up to our Nation's highest ideals.
 
These warriors endured days, months, and sometimes years of imprisonment, missing irreplaceable milestones and simple moments at home.  But they were never forgotten; they were remembered every day by loved ones.  Families, friends, and communities -- sustained by unyielding devotion through periods of painful unknown -- never lost hope.  And the United States of America remained deeply committed to our profound obligation to never leave our men and women in uniform behind.
 
As we reflect on the sacrifices that have made progress throughout our world possible, we are reminded of our solemn duty to serve our former prisoners of war, their families, and all our veterans as well as they served us.  Today, we recommit to upholding this sacred trust, and we pay tribute to all those who have given of themselves to protect our Union.
 
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 9, 2015, as National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day.  I call upon all Americans to observe this day of remembrance by honoring all American prisoners of war, our service members, and our veterans.  I also call upon Federal, State, and local government officials and organizations to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 06, 2015

Presidential Proclamation -- National Public Health Week, 2015

NATIONAL PUBLIC HEALTH WEEK, 2015

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Last year, as Ebola spread in West Africa -- overwhelming public health systems and threatening to cross more borders -- American women and men responded with extraordinary courage and dedication, traveling to the front lines of the outbreak and leading preparedness efforts here at home. Driven by their sense of duty and a commitment to serving a cause greater than themselves, public health professionals rose to the challenge at home and abroad and turned the tide of an epidemic. They demonstrated what is possible when America leads and when we make policy based on sound science and good judgment. Their efforts represent what is best about our national character and embody the most basic human instinct: to leave our children a safer, healthier, more prosperous world.

As a Nation, we must continue to support public health with the same sense of purpose and fierce determination. This week, we join together to declare our intent to rise to the challenges of a changing world and meet our moral obligations to protect the health of our country and the well-being of the next generation.

America's public health is deeply tied to the health of our environment. As our planet becomes more interconnected and our climate continues to warm, we face new threats to our safety and well-being. In the past three decades, the percentage of Americans with asthma has more than doubled, and climate change is putting these individuals and many other vulnerable populations at greater risk of landing in the hospital. Rising temperatures can lead to more smog, longer allergy seasons, and an increased incidence of extreme-weather-related injuries and illnesses.

My Administration is dedicated to combating the health impacts of climate change. As part of my Climate Action Plan, we have proposed the first-ever carbon pollution limits for existing power plants -- standards that would help Americans live longer, healthier lives. And as we continue to ensure the resilience of our health care system, we are working to prepare our health care facilities to handle the effects of a changing planet. Climate change is no longer a distant threat. Its effects are felt today, and its costs can be measured in human lives. Every person, every community, and every nation has a duty to protect the health of all our children and grandchildren, and my Administration is committed to leading this effort.

The United States has faced challenges before, and each time we have boldly taken responsibility for our destiny and reached for the future we knew was possible. Today, vaccines prevent diseases that once devastated nations -- and we should do more to spread the facts about their benefits. After 5 years of the Affordable Care Act, more than 16 million uninsured Americans have gained health insurance coverage, and this achievement has cut the ranks of the uninsured by nearly one-third.

We are shifting the focus of our country's health care system from sickness and disease to wellness and prevention. First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! initiative is working to make it easier for parents and children to make healthy choices about the food they eat and the exercise they get every day. With partners around the world, the United States launched the Global Health Security Agenda to help prevent, detect, and respond to outbreaks before they become epidemics. And my Administration is taking aggressive, coordinated actions to slow the emergence and prevent the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Public health is the foundation for a brighter tomorrow. When we invest in the safety and well-being of all Americans, we enrich our communities, bolster our economy, and strengthen our Nation. During National Public Health Week, we recognize public health professionals and all who care for the welfare of others, and we recommit to doing everything within our power to build a world where every child can enjoy the limitless possibilities of a healthy life.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 6 through April 12, 2015, as National Public Health Week. I call on all citizens, government agencies, private businesses, non-profit organizations, and other groups to join in activities and take action to improve the health of our Nation.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 01, 2015

Presidential Proclamation -- World Autism Awareness Day, 2015

WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY, 2015

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION

On World Autism Awareness Day, our Nation recognizes all those around the globe who live on the autism spectrum.  We celebrate the countless ways they strengthen our communities and enrich our world -- and we reaffirm their fundamental rights to participate fully in society, live with respect, and achieve their greatest potential.  

In the United States, millions of adults and young people live with autism spectrum disorder, including 1 out of every 68 children.  They are our colleagues, classmates, friends, and loved ones, and they each have something to contribute to the American story.  In large cities and small towns, individuals with autism live independent and productive lives, and our Nation is better because of their unique talents and perspectives.  Their example reminds us that all people have inherent dignity and worth, and that everyone deserves a fair shot at opportunity.

My Administration is committed to helping Americans with autism fulfill their potential by ensuring access to the resources and programs they need.  The Affordable Care Act prohibits companies from denying health insurance because of pre-existing conditions such as autism, and the law also requires most insurance plans to cover preventive services -- including autism and developmental screenings for young children -- without copays.  Last year, I was proud to sign the Autism CARES Act of 2014, which bolstered training and educational opportunities for professionals serving children or adults on the autism spectrum.  And as part of the BRAIN Initiative, we continue to invest in innovative research that aims to revolutionize our understanding of conditions like autism and improve the lives of all who live with them.

The greatness of our Nation lies in the diversity of our people.  When more Americans are able to pursue their full measure of happiness, it makes our Union more perfect and uplifts us all.  Today, let us honor advocates, professionals, family members, and all who work to build brighter tomorrows alongside those with autism.  Together, we can create a world free of barriers to inclusion and full of understanding and acceptance of the differences that make us strong.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2, 2015, World Autism Awareness Day.  I encourage all Americans to learn more about autism and what they can do to support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

 

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 01, 2015

Presidential Proclamation -- National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, 2015

NATIONAL SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS AND PREVENTION MONTH, 2015

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION

As Americans, we each have the power to shape our country's course and contribute to the extraordinary task of perfecting our Union.  For more than two centuries, progress has been won by ordinary citizens -- women and men who joined arms and marched toward justice.  This month, we are once again reminded that we can change our culture for the better by standing together against the quiet tolerance of sexual assault and refusing to accept the unacceptable.

Nearly one in five women in America has been a victim of rape or attempted rape.  Every year, too many women and too many men are sexually assaulted and abused.  This is an affront to our basic decency and humanity, and it must end.  Sexual assault harms our communities, weakens the foundation of our Nation, and hurts those we love most.  For survivors, the awful pain can take years to heal -- sometimes it never does.  When an individual's possibilities are limited by the scars of violence and abuse, our country is deprived of enormous potential. Sexual assault takes a collective toll on all of us, and it is everyone's responsibility not only to speak out, but also to take action against this injustice.

More than two decades ago, then United States Senator Joe Biden did both.  At a time when many victims were stigmatized or left to suffer in silence, he authored the Violence Against Women Act, which would forever improve the way our country responds to sexual assault and domestic violence.  In the decades since, our Nation has built on that progress.  We have taken strides toward changing the way people think about sexual misconduct, making it clear that every person has the fundamental human right to be free from sexual assault and domestic violence.

Thanks to the work of advocates, community leaders, public servants, and courageous survivors who shared their stories, our Nation has come an incredibly long way.  But from schools to military bases and throughout all communities in America, we must do more to end the crime of sexual assault.  My Administration has made this a priority since day one, beginning with the establishment of the first-ever White House Advisor on Violence Against Women.  And we will keep fighting as long as it takes.

We have taken action to strengthen our criminal justice system, uphold the civil rights of victims and survivors of sexual assault, and ensure that all people can live free from sexual violence.  Now in its second year, the White House Task Force to Protect Students from Sexual Assault is helping schools live up to their obligations to educate students in safe environments.  We continue to address the impact of sexual assault on persons living with or at risk for HIV/AIDS.  I have also made clear that violence and abuse have no place in the finest military this world has ever known.  And last fall, we launched the "It's On Us" campaign to let people know everyone has a role to play in preventing and effectively responding to sexual violence.

It's on parents and caregivers to teach their children to respect and value others.  It's on teammates, classmates, and colleagues to recognize sexual misconduct and intervene to stop it.  It's on all of us to work for the change we need to shift the attitudes and behaviors that allow sexual assault to go unnoticed, unreported, and unpunished.  During National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, let us commit to being part of the solution and rededicate ourselves to creating a society where violence is not tolerated, survivors are supported, and all people are able to pursue their fullest measure of happiness without fear of abuse or assault.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2015 as National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.  I urge all Americans to support survivors of sexual assault and work together to prevent these crimes in their communities. 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

 

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 01, 2015

Presidential Proclamation -- National Donate Life Month, 2015

NATIONAL DONATE LIFE MONTH, 2015

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION

At this moment, more than 123,000 Americans are in need of a life-saving organ transplant.  Our Nation continues to face a critical shortage of donors, and every day, 21 people die waiting for an organ.  This month, we renew our call for organ, eye, and tissue donors, and we honor all those who have given the extraordinary gift of life.

The decision to become a donor can save up to eight lives and enhance many more -- men, women, and children who depend on the generosity and sacrifice of others to receive the vital care they require.  I encourage individuals of all ages and backgrounds to consider this unique opportunity to help those in need and to discuss this choice with friends and family.  For more information and to learn how to join your State's donor registry, visit www.OrganDonor.gov.

In the face of uncertainty and suffering, Americans have always joined together, drawing strength and comfort from our commitment to one another; we find hope through faith and our enduring belief that we are our brothers' and sisters' keepers.  During National Donate Life Month, let us stand with all those who know the pain of an uncertain tomorrow and redouble our efforts to save and improve the lives of Americans across our country.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2015 as National Donate Life Month. I call upon health care professionals, volunteers, educators, government agencies, faith-based and community groups, and private organizations to join forces to boost the number of organ, eye, and tissue donors throughout our Nation. 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

 

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
April 01, 2015

Presidential Proclamation -- National Cancer Control Month, 2015

NATIONAL CANCER CONTROL MONTH, 2015

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION

For generations, the United States has been committed to combating cancer.  It is a battle fought by our finest medical researchers, devoted health care professionals, and the many loved ones who have known the pain of this disease.  Over decades, our Nation has made extraordinary progress.  The overall rates of cancer deaths are decreasing for both women and men, and most survivors live longer and enjoy a better quality of life than ever before.  Still, cancer remains the second most common cause of death in America, and there is more work to do.  This month, we stand with all those touched by cancer and redouble our efforts to prevent, detect, and treat this disease.

All people can take steps to reduce their chances of developing cancer.  Maintaining a healthy weight, protecting skin from exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and limiting alcohol consumption can help individuals live healthier lives.  Because cigarettes are a major cause of cancer, quitting smoking and reducing exposure to secondhand smoke can also decrease risk.  For advice on how to quit smoking, go to www.SmokeFree.gov or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.  I also encourage Americans to visit www.Cancer.gov for more information on cancer prevention.

When cancer is found in an early stage, it can be easier to treat and the chances of survival often increase.  My Administration has fought to make this possible for more Americans.  Protections under the Affordable Care Act require most insurance plans to cover recommended preventive services without copays, including some cancer screenings for qualifying individuals.  These protections also eliminate annual and lifetime dollar limits on coverage and prohibit insurers from denying coverage because of pre-existing conditions, including cancer.

New technologies and strategic investments have made the difference between life and death for many of today's cancer patients.  But as Americans, we have never been satisfied to rest on the accomplishments of our past; we reach for the future and stretch the boundaries of what is possible.  That is why earlier this year, I announced my plan to lead a new era of medicine -- one that delivers the right treatment at the right moment and brings us closer to curing cancer in our time.  By investing in new research methods that will enable clinicians to tailor treatments to individual patients, the Precision Medicine Initiative will revolutionize how our Nation combats disease.

As we continue the urgent work of improving research, treatment, and care, let us remember those lost to cancer.  During National Cancer Control Month, we recognize all who dedicate their lives to advancing the fight against this disease, and we recommit to achieving a future free from cancer in all its forms.

The Congress of the United States, by joint resolution approved March 28, 1938 (52 Stat. 148; 36 U.S.C. 103), as amended, has requested the President to issue an annual proclamation declaring April as "Cancer Control Month."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim April 2015 as National Cancer Control Month.  I encourage citizens, government agencies, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, and other interested groups to join in activities that will increase awareness of what Americans can do to prevent and control cancer.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

 

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
March 31, 2015

Presidential Proclamation -- National Financial Capability Month, 2015

NATIONAL FINANCIAL CAPABILITY MONTH, 2015

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION

Our Nation is built on the idea that we do best when everyone gets a fair shot.  Six years after a devastating recession shook many Americans' faith in our financial system, our economy is steadily growing and creating new jobs -- but we must do more to restore the link between hard work and growing opportunity for every person.  We believe responsibility should be rewarded, and that begins by empowering all people with the tools and knowledge they need to share in America's prosperity.  During National Financial Capability Month, we renew our efforts to support the informed financial decisions that will open doors into the middle class and help ensure economic security for all.

Critical decisions -- from financing higher education to saving for retirement -- can have lasting consequences for individuals and for our country's economy.  Financial literacy enables people of all ages to make smart choices and set goals to protect their hard-earned income.  And increasing individuals' understanding of debt, including mortgages and credit cards, helps guarantee every person receives equal treatment and is able to secure lasting opportunity.  By strengthening the financial capability of all Americans, we are investing in the fundamental promise of a brighter future and building a more prosperous Nation.

My Administration continues to take action to provide all Americans with the resources they need to get ahead.  We launched the "Know Before You Owe" campaign so students and families have a straightforward tool to compare financial aid offers from different colleges, and we simplified mortgage forms so homeowners are better able to comprehend their terms.  We started the myRA program, a new type of savings account to help  Americans take control over their future, and we are proposing new rules to require financial advisors to put their clients' interests before their own -- ensuring all who responsibly prepare for retirement receive the best information possible. To focus on increasing financial capability in our schools, workplaces, and communities, I created the President's Advisory Council on Financial Capability for Young Americans, and last year, I signed legislation to support programs that teach young people personal finance skills.

Increasing financial capability across our Nation is an essential component of middle-class economics.  This month, let us all take time to increase our knowledge of our finances and encourage our friends and family to do the same.  To start, all Americans can take advantage of the free, reliable financial resources at www.MyMoney.gov, www.ConsumerFinance.gov, and 1-800-FED-INFO.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of theUnited States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2015 as National Financial Capability Month.  I call upon all Americans to observe this month with programs and activities to improve their understanding of financial principles and practices. 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

 

 BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
March 31, 2015

Presidential Proclamation -- National Child Abuse Prevention Month, 2015

NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH, 2015

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Every child is born into a world filled with limitless possibilities, and as a Nation, we must ensure all our young people have the support they need to realize their enormous potential.  Regardless of who they are or the circumstances of their birth, each child deserves to be cared for, cherished, and kept safe from harm.  Tragically, abuse and neglect erode this promise for hundreds of thousands of America's daughters and sons each year.  This is an injustice.  It is contrary to the values of good caretaking and the principles of our Nation, and it must not be tolerated.  This month, we celebrate the love and courage it takes to raise a child; we reaffirm the fundamental human rights of all children to live free from violence and abuse; and we rededicate ourselves to ending the cycle of harm too many girls and boys face.

A strong, stable family is the best foundation for a promising childhood, and when parents and caregivers have support -- from loved ones, friends, and their community -- they are more likely to provide safe and healthy environments for children.  It is important for all people to recognize the signs of child neglect and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, including sudden changes in behavior or school performance and untreated physical or medical issues.  Reporting any concerns could protect a child and connect a family with the help they need.  To learn more about how to prevent and report child abuse, visit www.ChildWelfare.gov/Preventing.

My Administration is committed to strengthening our Nation's families and doing everything we can to make it easier for mothers and fathers to care and provide for their children.  We are also investing in evidence-based State and local programs that promote positive parenting and caregiving to help prevent child abuse and neglect.  These efforts can help decrease the number of children entering the foster care system and provide better outcomes for those in it.  We will continue to work with the faith community and the private sector to bolster all those who support our Nation's young people, and I encourage leaders across all levels of government to invest in services for victims and provide the resources and protections our kids need.

The work of raising our children is the most important job in our country, and it is also the most challenging.  At times, it can be difficult to live up to the enormous responsibilities that come with being a parent, especially when families face hardship.  But parenthood does not demand perfection.  If we do our best for our children -- to nurture their healthy development, seek assistance when needed, and meet our obligations to them -- we can demonstrate to our daughters and sons that they are always our first priority.

As a Nation and as individuals, our attitudes toward our children set a powerful example that shapes their character and influences the kind of people they will become.  During National Child Abuse Prevention Month, we renew our commitment to protect the safety and well-being of every child, and we resolve to continue the hard work of raising a generation that can dream bigger and reach higher than ever before.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2015 as National Child Abuse Prevention Month.  I call upon all Americans to observe this month with programs and activities that help prevent child abuse and provide for children's physical, emotional, and developmental needs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

 

BARACK OBAMA