The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
October 01, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--Fire Prevention Week

During Fire Prevention Week, we reaffirm the importance of fire safety and awareness, and we pay tribute to our firefighters, volunteers, and first responders who put themselves in harm's way to protect our lives, homes, and communities every day.

Each of us can take precautions in our homes to safeguard our loved ones from the hazards of fire.  Smoke alarms are vital detection devices, and properly installing and maintaining them in the home can help keep our families safe.  Residential sprinkler systems can give individuals extra time to evacuate a home safely in case of an emergency as well.  This year's theme, "Smoke Alarms:  A sound you can live with," encourages all Americans to test alarms at least once a month, and to check their batteries and locations.

Parents and caregivers should also take the time to discuss and practice emergency plans with children in the event of a fire.  Additionally, around the home, it is important to ensure electronic appliances, machines, and heating units are plugged in and operated properly.  With responsible use of fire indoors and outdoors -- from safely disposing of matches and cigarettes to increased attention when cooking on grills or building a campfire -- we can avoid untold numbers of emergencies, injuries, and lives lost to fire and its consequences.

Fire Prevention Week also calls our attention to the lifesaving work our firefighters perform in communities across America.  These courageous professionals are the first ones on the scene during an emergency, fearlessly charging up smoke-filled staircases as people rush down them.  Some have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.  Our Nation is profoundly grateful for the dedication and tireless efforts of our firefighters and first responders in their selfless service to our communities.

I encourage all Americans to take preventative measures during Fire Prevention Week to protect themselves, their families, and their communities from the hazards of fire and to express gratitude to our firefighters and first responders.  Together, we can ensure the resilience and safety of our neighborhoods, and aid the brave men and women who risk their lives every day to protect us.

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 October 3 through October 9, 2010, as Fire Prevention Week.  On Sunday, October 3, 2010, in accordance with Public Law 107-51, the flag of the United States will be flown at half-staff on all Federal office buildings in honor of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service.  I call on all Americans to participate in this observance with appropriate programs and activities and by renewing their efforts to prevent fires and their tragic consequences.

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

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
October 01, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--National Disability Employment Awareness Month

As Americans, we understand employment and economic security are critical to fulfilling our hopes and aspirations.  We also know we are stronger when our country and economy can benefit from the skills and talents of all our citizens.  No individual in our Nation should face unnecessary barriers to success, and no American with a disability should be limited in his or her desire to work.  During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we renew our focus on improving employment opportunities and career pathways that lead to good jobs and sound economic futures for people with disabilities.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the landmark civil rights legislation that established a foundation of justice and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities.  In the two decades since its passage, much progress has been made.  However, Americans with disabilities continue to be employed at a rate far below Americans without disabilities, and they are underrepresented in our Federal workforce.

My Administration is committed to ensuring people living with disabilities have fair access to jobs so they can contribute to our economy and realize their dreams.  To help achieve this goal, I signed an Executive Order in July to increase Federal employment of individuals with disabilities.  This directive requires Federal agencies to design model recruitment and hiring strategies for people with disabilities, and to implement programs to retain these public servants.  To ensure transparency and accountability, agencies will report on their progress on hiring people with disabilities, and the Office of Personnel Management will post the results of agencies' efforts online for public evaluation.  As the Nation's largest employer, the Federal Government can become a model employer by increasing employment across America of individuals with disabilities.

The 21st-century economy demands a highly educated workforce equipped with the technology and skills to maintain America's leadership in the global marketplace.  Technology has changed the way we work, and the Federal Government is leveraging emerging, assistive, and other workplace technologies to improve the options available for everyone, including workers with disabilities.  We must improve the accessibility of our workplaces and enable the collaboration and contributions of every employee, and that is why I look forward to signing into law the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010.  This legislation will greatly increase access to technology, with advances in areas such as closed captioning, delivery of emergency information, video description, and other advanced communications -- all essential tools for learning and working in today's technological society.

Individuals with disabilities are a vital and dynamic part of our Nation, and their contributions have impacted countless lives.  People with disabilities bring immeasurable value to our workplaces, and we will continue to address the challenges to employment that must be overcome.  This month, let us rededicate ourselves to fostering equal access and fair opportunity in our labor force, and to capitalizing on the talent, skills, and rich diversity of all our workers.

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 October 2010 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month.  I urge all Americans to embrace the unique value that individuals with disabilities bring to our workplaces and communities and to promote everyone's right to employment.

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

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
October 01, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--National Energy Awareness Month

    America's energy resources are inextricably linked to our continued prosperity, security, and environmental health.  When it comes to our Nation's energy future, we face fundamental choices between action and inaction, between embracing the possibilities of a new clean energy economy and settling for the status quo, and between leading the world in clean energy and lagging behind.  We must choose wisely and invest in clean energy technologies to position our country for a sustainable future, create new jobs, improve the health of our environment, and lay the foundation for our long term economic security and prosperity.

    The time to act is now.  Every year our overdependence on fossil fuels sends billions of dollars overseas to buy foreign oil instead of supporting American workers and farmers, rewarding innovation, and developing clean energy industries here at home.  Fossil fuel pollution has already begun to change our climate, posing a grave and growing danger to our economy, our national security, and our environment.
 
    Over the last year and a half, we have taken unprecedented action to build a clean energy economy.  The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act made a $90 billion down payment on a clean energy future for our country.  This critical investment is expanding manufacturing capacity for clean energy technologies; advancing vehicle and fuel technologies; spurring the development of renewable fuels; and catalyzing progress towards a bigger, better, smarter electric grid; all while creating new jobs that cannot be shipped overseas.  My Administration also set tough new fuel-economy standards and the first greenhouse gas emissions standards for cars and light trucks.  Additionally, I signed an Executive Order that empowers the Federal Government to lead by example by cutting its energy use.  As our Nation's single largest energy consumer, the Federal Government has an obligation to improve its energy efficiency, increase its use of renewable energy, cut greenhouse gas pollution, and leverage its purchasing power to advance a clean energy economy.
 
    Across the country, citizens themselves are helping to lead the way.  In small towns and city neighborhoods, on college campuses and in houses of worship, in office buildings and on the shop floor, Americans are standing up and building a clean energy economy together through community information, education, and action.
 
    This progress must mark the start, not the end, of our efforts.  Today, countries around the world are competing to create the clean energy economy and jobs of tomorrow, and the country that harnesses the power of clean energy will lead the global economy.  As a Nation of scientists and engineers, farmers and entrepreneurs, we must continue to invest in clean, domestic sources of energy, harness the innovation of our brightest minds, promote our world leading industries, and find lasting solutions to our energy challenges.
 
    If we seize this moment, we stand to strengthen our economy, enhance our national security, and preserve our environment.  During National Energy Awareness Month, let us commit to embarking on a new course to achieve our clean energy future.
 
    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 October 2010 as National Energy Awareness Month.  I call upon the citizens of the United States to recognize this month by making clean energy choices that will help build a stronger Nation, a more robust economy, and a healthier environment for our children.
 
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.
 
                BARACK OBAMA
 

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
October 01, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH, 2010

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

In the 16 years since the passage of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), we have broken the silence surrounding domestic violence to reach thousands of survivors, prevent countless incidences of abuse, and save untold numbers of lives.  While these are critical achievements, domestic violence remains a devastating public health crisis when one in four women will be physically or sexually assaulted by a partner at some point in her lifetime.  During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we recognize the tremendous progress made in reducing domestic violence, and we recommit to making everyone's home a safe place for them.

My Administration is committed to reducing the prevalence of domestic violence.  Last year, I appointed the first-ever White House Advisor on Violence Against Women to collaborate with the many Federal agencies working together to end domestic violence in this country.  Together with community efforts, these Federal programs are making important strides towards eliminating abuse.

The landmark Affordable Care Act also serves as a lifeline for domestic violence victims.  Before I signed this legislation in March, insurance companies in eight States and the District of Columbia were able to classify domestic violence as a pre existing condition, leaving victims at risk of not receiving vital treatment when they are most vulnerable.  Now, victims need not fear the additional burden of increased medical bills as they attempt to protect themselves and rebuild their lives.

Individuals of every race, gender, and background face domestic violence, but some communities are disproportionately affected.  In order to combat the prevalence of domestic violence and sexual assault in tribal areas, I signed the Tribal Law and Order Act to strengthen tribal law enforcement and its ability to prosecute and fight crime more effectively.  This important legislation will also help survivors of domestic violence get the medical attention, services, support, and justice they need.

Children exposed to domestic violence, whether victims or witnesses, also need our help.  Without intervention, they are at higher risk for failure in school, emotional disorders, substance abuse, and perpetrating violent behavior later in life.  That is why my Administration has launched the "Defending Childhood" initiative at the Department of Justice to revitalize prevention, intervention, and response systems for children exposed to violence.  The Department of Health and Human Services is also expanding services and enhancing community responses for children exposed to violence.

Ending domestic violence requires a collaborative effort involving every part of our society.  Our law enforcement and justice system must work to hold offenders accountable and to protect victims and their children.  Business, faith, and community leaders, as well as educators, health care providers, and human service professionals, also have a role to play in communicating that domestic violence is always unacceptable.  As a Nation, we must endeavor to protect survivors, bring offenders to justice, and change attitudes that support such violence.  I encourage victims, their loved ones, and concerned citizens to call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1 800-799-SAFE or visit:  www.TheHotline.org.

This month -- and throughout the year -- let each of us resolve to be vigilant in recognizing and combating domestic violence in our communities, and let us build a culture of safety and support for all those affected.

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 October 2010 as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  I call on all Americans to speak out against domestic violence and support local efforts to assist victims of these crimes in finding the help and healing they need.

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

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
October 01, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

NATIONAL CYBERSECURITY AWARENESS MONTH, 2010

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

America's digital infrastructure is critical to laying the foundation for our economic prosperity, government efficiency, and national security.  We stand at a transformational moment in history, when our technologically interconnected world presents both immense promise and potential risks.  The same technology that provides new opportunities for economic growth and the free exchange of information around the world also makes possible new threats.  During National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we recognize the risk of cyber attacks and the important steps we can take to strengthen our digital literacy and cybersecurity.

America relies on our digital infrastructure daily, and protecting this strategic asset is a national security priority.  My Administration is committed to advancing both the security of our informational infrastructure and the cutting-edge research and development necessary to meet the digital challenges of our time.  Earlier this year, we marked the one-year anniversary of my Administration's thorough review of Federal efforts to defend our Nation's information technology and communications infrastructure.  We must continue to work closely with a broad array of partners -- from Federal, State, local, and tribal governments to foreign governments, academia, law enforcement, and the private sector -- to reduce risk and build resilience in our shared critical information and communications infrastructure.

All Americans must recognize our shared responsibility and play an active role in securing the cyber networks we use every day.  National Cybersecurity Awareness Month provides an opportunity to learn more about the importance of cybersecurity.  To that end, the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Trade Commission have highlighted basic cybersecurity tips every computer user should adopt, including using security software tools, backing up important files, and protecting children online.  I urge all Americans to visit DHS.gov/Cyber and OnGuardOnline.gov for more information about practices that can enhance the security of our shared cyber networks.

Effective cyber networks connect us and allow us to conduct business around the globe faster than ever before.  We must advance innovative public- and private-sector initiatives to protect the confidentiality of sensitive information, the integrity of e commerce, and the resilience of our cyber infrastructure.  Together with businesses, community-based organizations, and public- and private-sector partners, we are launching a National Cybersecurity Awareness Campaign:  "Stop. Think. Connect."  Through this initiative, Americans can learn about and become more aware of risks in cyberspace, and be empowered to make choices that contribute to our overall security.

The growth and spread of technology has already transformed international security and the global marketplace.  So long as the United States -- the Nation that created the Internet and launched an information revolution -- continues to be a pioneer in both technological innovation and cybersecurity, we will maintain our strength, resilience, and leadership in the 21st century.

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 October 2010 as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month.  I call upon the people of the United States to recognize the importance of cybersecurity and to observe this month with activities, events, and trainings that will enhance our national security and resilience.

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

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
September 27, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--Family Day

Committed families shape and guide our children, preparing them for every obstacle they may encounter and encouraging them to overcome life's most demanding challenges.  Today, our young people are exposed to negative influences that can lead to dangerous decisions, such as abusing drugs and alcohol.  When parents, loved ones, and mentors take the time to educate youth about the risks they face, they can change attitudes and reduce the likelihood their loved ones will use alcohol and illicit drugs.  On Family Day, we honor the devotion of parents and family members, and recognize their critical role in teaching our young people positive and healthy behaviors.

Parents across America balance demanding responsibilities at work with family needs, including valuable time spent with their children.  America's youth encounter difficult choices in their daily lives, and we must be there for them as they strive to succeed in school and resist pressures to use dangerous substances that can affect their health and limit their potential.  Concerned and active parents and guardians play a critical role in keeping our children drug-free, and they can demonstrate by example how to lead a healthy and drug-free life.  I encourage all Americans to visit www.TheAntiDrug.com for information and resources to talk with children and warn them against the perils of drug use.

Simple daily activities such as sharing a meal, a conversation, or a book can have an enormous impact on the life of a child.  Strong and engaged families help build a strong America, and it is our responsibility as concerned family members to discuss the dangers of substance abuse.  On this Family Day, let us recommit to creating a solid foundation for the future health and happiness of all our Nation's children.

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 September 27, 2010, as Family Day.  I call upon the people of the United States to join together in observing this day by spending time with your families, and by engaging in appropriate ceremonies and activities to honor and strengthen our Nation's families.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-seventh day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
September 24, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--National Hunting and Fishing Day

As Americans, the bond we have with our land is traceable to our earliest ancestors and etched into the character of our Nation. From the rocky shoals of New England to the rugged mountains of the West, the natural beauty and great diversity of our open spaces draw millions to the outdoors every year for sport, play, and relaxation. On National Hunting and Fishing Day, we recognize the Americans who engage in these timeless pursuits, and we reaffirm our commitment to conserving our native lands, waters, and wildlife for generations to come.
 
Like President Theodore Roosevelt -- an enthusiastic hunter and a great conservationist -- hunters and anglers value stewardship, often leading efforts to ensure the protection of our Nation's wildlife, habitats, and waterways. President Roosevelt understood that conservation was essential to preserving our hunting and fishing heritage, and during his Presidency established the first units of the National Wildlife Refuge System to sustain the outdoor traditions many Americans enjoy today. We recognize, as President Roosevelt did over a century ago, that we must champion the conservation of our lands, and those who know them well -- the individuals who hunt and fish -- must endeavor to be their consummate guardians.
 
Conservation takes on even greater importance today as our lands, waters, and wildlife face threats from global climate change, loss of habitats, and environmental disasters. The abundance of our wilderness is not limitless and needs protection and restoration. To ensure America's wild spaces remain healthy and accessible for all to enjoy, outdoorsmen and women can continue to participate in innovative programs such as the Federal Duck Stamp Program to protect and restore our natural legacy. This includes rebuilding and safeguarding our fragile Gulf ecosystem, where the unique and beautiful bounty of waterfowl, fish, and other game confront exceptional hardships.
 
Following in the footsteps of President Roosevelt and other conservationists, my Administration is dedicated to fostering a national conversation about 21st-century conservation that embraces a broad coalition of Americans, including hunters and anglers. Through my America's Great Outdoors Initiative, we have heard from sportsmen and women across our country about the value of hunting and fishing, the challenges to wildlife conservation, and how the Federal Government can be a better partner for conservation. My Administration established the Wildlife and Hunting Heritage Conservation Council to enlist the efforts of the sporting community, wildlife conservation organizations, States, and Native American tribes to uphold our Nation's wildlife heritage and to meet the conservation challenges of our time. We added over 4 million acres to the Conservation Reserve Program this year to provide important wildlife habitats, and we have taken specific steps to benefit gamebirds in this program. In addition, we are providing millions of dollars to the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program, a new effort to encourage hunting, fishing, and other recreational activities on privately owned land.
 
Our ability to enjoy our land and wildlife today is a tribute to the character of conservationists who have come before us. On National Hunting and Fishing Day, we celebrate the time-honored traditions of hunting and fishing, as well as the preservation of America's vast natural resources, as we seek to protect them for centuries to come.
 
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 September 25, 2010, as National Hunting and Fishing Day. I call upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate programs and activities.
 
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.
 
BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
September 24, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--National Public Lands Day

From majestic mountain ranges to beloved neighborhood parks, Americans enjoy the natural places our ancestors have celebrated and protected for centuries.  Our public lands represent the American spirit and reflect our shared experience    our history, our culture, and our deep love for wild and beautiful places.  Every September, thousands of Americans volunteer their time and talents to protect our parks, national forests, wildlife refuges, and other public lands.  National Public Lands Day is an occasion to join together in honor of our Nation's unique natural treasures.
 
Every year, Americans take this opportunity to conserve and restore our public places.  Last year, an estimated 150,000 dedicated volunteers removed litter and invasive plants; cleaned water resources; built and maintained trails; and planted trees, shrubs, and other native plants.  This year, I encourage even more Americans to volunteer in local projects to have a greater impact on parks and public lands across our Nation.
 
Taking care of our public lands is and must continue to be a proud American tradition.  In April, I hosted the White House Conference on America's Great Outdoors to address challenges and opportunities surrounding conservation today, and to identify new ways to work together to preserve our natural bounty.  I also inaugurated the America's Great Outdoors Initiative to build a conservation agenda for the 21st century, and to reconnect Americans to our great outdoors.  To do this, I instructed my Administration to participate in listening sessions around the country to hear Americans' concerns, and to learn about what citizens and communities are doing to safeguard our land, water, and wildlife, as well as places of historic and cultural significance.  As a Nation, we must engage in a new conversation about the conservation of the cherished places that have helped define us.
 
On this day of service and celebration, I encourage all Americans to give their time and energy to care for    and to go out and enjoy    our public lands.  Together, we can build upon our history of stewardship so our unique landscapes are preserved for countless generations to come.
 
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 September 25, 2010, as National Public Lands Day.  I invite all Americans to join me in a day of service for our public lands.
 
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.
 
BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
September 24, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--Gold Star Mother’s and Families’ Day

 In a long line of heroes stretching from the greens of Lexington and Concord to the mountains of Afghanistan, selfless patriots have defended our lives and liberties with valor and honor.  They have been ordinary Americans who loved their country so profoundly that they were willing to give their lives to keep it safe and free.  As we pay tribute to the valiant men and women in uniform lost in battle, we also recognize the deep loss and great strength of those who share in that ultimate sacrifice:  America's Gold Star Mothers and Families.

 For those in our Armed Forces who gave their last full measure of devotion, their loved ones know the high cost of our hard won freedoms and security.  An empty seat at the table and missed milestones leave a void that can never be filled, yet the legacy of our fallen heroes lives on in the people they loved.  Their exceptional spirit of service dwells in the pride of Gold Star parents, who instilled the values that led these brave men and women to service.  It grows in the hearts of their children, who know that, despite their absence, they gave their lives so others might be free.  And, it echoes in the enduring love of their spouses    the backbone of our military families    who supported the person they cherished most in the world in serving our Nation.  Though our Gold Star families have sacrificed more than most can ever imagine, they still find the courage and strength to comfort other families, support veterans, and give back to their communities.

 It is from these examples of unwavering patriotism that we witness the values and ideals for which our country was founded, and for which America's sons and daughters have laid down their lives.  As members of a grateful Nation, we owe a debt we can never repay, but hold this sacred obligation forever in our hearts, minds, and actions.

 The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 115 of June 23, 1936 (49 Stat. 1895 as amended), has designated the last Sunday in September as "Gold Star Mother's Day."

 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 Sunday, September 26, 2010, as Gold Star Mother's and Families' Day.  I call upon all Government officials to display the flag of the United States over Government buildings on this special day.  I also encourage the American people to display the flag and hold appropriate ceremonies as a public expression of our Nation's sympathy, support, and respect for our Gold Star Mothers and Families.

 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release
September 18, 2010

Proclamation for Release - National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week, 2010

 - - - - - - -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Education is critical to our children's future and to the continued growth and prosperity of our Nation.  To maintain our leadership in the global economy, we have an obligation to provide a high quality education to our children and ensure they can obtain higher education and job training.  Currently, Hispanics are the largest and fastest growing minority group in our Nation, and they have been a vital force of innovation and development.  As we look to deliver a world class education that will determine America's success in the 21st century, we must ensure Hispanics have access to the resources and tools needed to compete and thrive.

Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) are key members of our higher education system and vital sources of strength for our Nation's students.  They play an important role in attracting underrepresented Americans to science, technology, engineering, and math    fields that will be pivotal in the 21st century economy.  HSIs are committed to improving the lives of their students as well as helping revitalize the communities where they serve.  Graduates of these institutions are helping expand our economy and enriching all aspects of our national life.

To prepare the next generation of great American leaders, my Administration has set a goal to have the highest proportion of college graduates in the world by 2020.  Enhancing educational opportunities for Hispanics will be vital to achieving this objective, and we will need the continued leadership of our HSIs to increase the enrollment, retention, and graduation rates of our Hispanic students.  Working together, we will open doors of opportunity for all our children and help them succeed on a global stage.

This week, we celebrate the contributions of the more than 200 Hispanic Serving Institutions in communities across our country, and we recognize the students, alumni, parents, teachers, and school leaders whose vision and dedication has brightened countless futures.  We will need their dreams and hard work, ideas and talents, perseverance and daring in the days ahead to build a stronger, more prosperous tomorrow for our Nation.

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 September 19 through September 25, 2010, as National Hispanic Serving Institutions Week.  I call upon all public officials, educators, and people of the United States to observe this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that acknowledge the contributions these institutions and their graduates have made to our country.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

                                            BARACK OBAMA