[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 148 (Wednesday, October 31, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Pages S11283-S11284]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    PRESIDENT BUSH'S STATEMENT ON NATIONAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES MONTH

  Mr. KENNEDY. Madam President, it is a privilege to take this 
opportunity to commend the efforts of artists and cultural 
organizations across the country during this difficult time. October 
has been National Arts and Humanities Month, and this year, in 
communities across the country, artists have participated in numerous 
public programs and performances to help families cope with the 
concerns they have.
  In Boston, musicians from the Boston Symphony joined in a poignant 
tribute to the victims of the World Trade Center attack. Here in 
Washington, the Kennedy Center hosted the ``Concert for America.'' So, 
too, in other cities across the country, performing artists have 
donated their time and their talent to raise funds to support those who 
have suffered the most because of the terrorist attacks, and to help 
with the healing process for all Americans who share their sense of 
grief and loss.
  The arts represent the highest levels of human achievement. They give 
expression to the deepest human emotions, and they are an indispensable 
part of the Nation's recovery and future strength.

[[Page S11284]]

  Last week, President Bush issued a strong statement commemorating 
National Arts and Humanities Month and acknowledging the special role 
of the arts in these challenging times. I commend the President for his 
eloquent statement, and I ask unanimous consent that it may be printed 
in the Record.
  There being no objection, the material was ordered to be printed in 
the Record, as follows:


                                              The White House,

                                     Washington, October 25, 2001.
       I am pleased to join my fellow Americans in observing 
     National Arts and Humanities Month in October.
       The arts and humanities enrich our lives, inspire our 
     hearts and minds, and help us to view the world from a 
     different perspective. Capturing the diversity and richness 
     of human experience, they allow us to explore ideas and 
     emotions and to better understand our history, culture, and 
     beliefs. The study and appreciation of the arts and 
     humanities serve as both a unifying force in society and as a 
     vehicle for individual expression.
       During these extraordinary times, the arts and humanities 
     have provided means for coping and healing in the face of 
     tragedy. Since the September 11 attacks, individuals and 
     groups throughout our country have joined together to 
     celebrate their patriotism by proudly singing ``The Star-
     Spangled Banner'' and ``God Bless America.'' Others have 
     expressed their grief by creating visual or written tributes 
     to those who lost their lives. People of all ages have 
     documented their personal experiences, firsthand knowledge, 
     and impressions of recent events to create a lasting 
     historical record for future generations.
       These varied activities point to the vital importance of 
     the arts and humanities in maintaining a vibrant society and 
     a strong democracy. During National Arts and Humanities 
     Month, I encourage all Americans to reflect on the 
     contributions of these creative and intellectual traditions 
     to our quality of life, and to participate in activities that 
     celebrate the spirit of our Nation and our love for freedom, 
     justice, and peace.
       Best wishes on this special occasion.
     George W. Bush.  

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