    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book II)]
    [December 8, 2006]
    [Page 2193]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Kwanzaa 2006
    December 8, 2006

        I send greetings to those observing Kwanzaa.
        During the seven days of Kwanzaa leading up to the New Year, friends
    and family come together in a spirit of love and joy to honor their rich
    African heritage, reflect on the Seven Principles, and give thanks for
    the blessings of freedom and opportunity. Forty years after the first
    Kwanzaa, this hopeful occasion remains an opportunity to build the bonds
    of family, community, and culture and move ever closer to the founding
    promise of liberty and justice for all.
        Our Nation is a better place because of the contributions African
    Americans have made to our strength and character over the generations.
    As you gather to celebrate your ancestry this Kwanzaa, I encourage you
    to take pride in your many achievements and look to the future with
    confidence in your abilities and faith in a brighter tomorrow.
        Laura and I send our best wishes for a joyous
    Kwanzaa and a blessed New Year.

                                                              George W. Bush

    Note: This message was released by the Office of the Press Secretary on
    December 18. An original was not available for verification of the
    content of this message.