[Federal Register Volume 66, Number 221 (Thursday, November 15, 2001)]
[Presidential Documents]
[Pages 57641-57642]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 01-28805]


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  Federal Register / Vol. 66, No. 221 / Thursday, November 15, 2001 / 
Presidential Documents  

[[Page 57641]]


                Proclamation 7500 of November 12, 2001

                
National American Indian Heritage Month, 2001

                By the President of the United States of America

                A Proclamation

                The strength of our Nation comes from its people. As 
                the early inhabitants of this great land, the native 
                peoples of North America played a unique role in the 
                shaping of our Nation's history and culture. During 
                this month when we celebrate Thanksgiving, we 
                especially celebrate their heritage and the 
                contributions of American Indian and Alaska Native 
                peoples to this Nation.

                Since our Nation's birth, pluralism and diversity have 
                been hallmarks of the American experience and success. 
                In 1782, the Founding Fathers chose as our national 
                motto ``E Pluribus Unum,'' which means ``out of many, 
                one.'' Today, America's unity, derived from a mix of 
                many diverse cultures and people, grandly embodies the 
                vision expressed by our Founders. American Indian and 
                Alaska Native cultures have made remarkable 
                contributions to our national identity. Their unique 
                spiritual, artistic, and literary contributions, 
                together with their vibrant customs and celebrations, 
                enliven and enrich our land.

                As we move into the 21st century, American Indians and 
                Alaska Natives will play a vital role in maintaining 
                our Nation's strength and prosperity. Almost half of 
                America's Native American tribal leaders have served in 
                the United States Armed Forces, following in the 
                footsteps of their forebears who distinguished 
                themselves during the World Wars and the conflicts in 
                Korea, Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf.

                Their patriotism again appeared after the September 11 
                attacks, as American Indian law enforcement officers 
                volunteered to serve in air marshal programs. On the 
                local level, American Indians and Alaska Natives are 
                strengthening their communities through education and 
                business development, opening the doors to opportunity, 
                and contributing to a brighter future for all.

                My Administration will continue to work with tribal 
                governments on a sovereign to sovereign basis to 
                provide Native Americans with new economic and 
                educational opportunities. Indian education programs 
                will remain a priority, so that no American child, 
                including no Native American child, is left behind. We 
                will protect and honor tribal sovereignty and help to 
                stimulate economic development in reservation 
                communities. We will work with the American Indians and 
                Alaska Natives to preserve their freedoms, as they 
                practice their religion and culture.

                During National American Indian Heritage Month, I call 
                on all Americans to learn more about the history and 
                heritage of the Native peoples of this great land. Such 
                actions reaffirm our appreciation and respect for their 
                traditions and way of life and can help to preserve an 
                important part of our culture for generations yet to 
                come.

                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 November 2001 as National 
                American Indian Heritage Month. I call upon the people 
                of the United States to observe this month with 
                appropriate programs and activities.

[[Page 57642]]

                IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 
                twelfth day of November, in the year of our Lord two 
                thousand one, and of the Independence of the United 
                States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth.

                    (Presidential Sig.)B

[FR Doc. 01-28805
Filed 11-14-01; 9:34 am]
Billing code 3195-01-P