[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 201 (Wednesday, October 16, 1996)]
[Presidential Documents]
[Pages 54075-54076]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-26773]


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  Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 201 / Wednesday, October 16, 1996 / 
Presidential Documents  

[[Page 54075]]


                Proclamation 6940 of October 11, 1996

                
Columbus Day, 1996

                By the President of the United States of America

                A Proclamation

                Throughout our history, America has been inspired by 
                the courage and daring of Christopher Columbus. Like 
                him, we are a people who dare to dream, to chart a bold 
                course, and to surmount formidable obstacles to reach 
                new horizons.

                Columbus' arrival in North America not only confirmed 
                his beliefs about our planet, but also initiated an 
                epic struggle between the Old and New Worlds. Yet out 
                of that triumphant voyage and the meeting of many 
                peoples developed a Nation and a way of life vastly 
                unlike those Columbus left behind.

                The expedition that Columbus--an Italian supported by 
                the Spanish Crown--began more than 500 years ago, 
                continues today as we experience and celebrate the 
                vibrant influences of varied civilizations, not only 
                from Europe, but also from around the world. America is 
                stronger because of this diversity, and the democracy 
                we cherish flourishes in the great mosaic we have 
                created since 1492. Americans of Italian and Spanish 
                heritage can be particularly proud, not only of 
                Columbus' achievements, but also of their own 
                contributions to our country.

                As we honor and remember Christopher Columbus, let us 
                use his example as a beacon to help guide us into the 
                21st century. His life, his voyages, and--above all--
                his vision can inspire us as we prepare for the 
                challenges that lie ahead. Let us remember that all of 
                us, regardless of our origins, are important 
                participants in that journey, and that our uncertainty 
                about what lies over the horizon should not shake our 
                faith that, together, we will succeed.

                In recognition of Columbus' epic achievement, the 
                Congress, by joint resolution of April 30, 1934 (48 
                Stat. 657), and an Act of June 28, 1968 (82 Stat. 250), 
                has requested the President to proclaim the second 
                Monday in October of each year as ``Columbus Day.''

                NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the 
                United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 
                14, 1996, as Columbus Day. I call upon the people of 
                the United States to observe this day with appropriate 
                ceremonies and activities. I also direct that the flag 
                of the United States be displayed on all public 
                buildings on the appointed day in honor of Christopher 
                Columbus.

[[Page 54076]]

                IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 
                eleventh day of October, in the year of our Lord 
                nineteen hundred and ninety-six, and of the 
                Independence of the United States of America the two 
                hundred and twenty-first.

                    (Presidential Sig.)

[FR Doc. 96-26773
Filed 10-15-96; 11:34 am]
Billing code 3195-01-P