    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 117, 108th Congress, 1st Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    Proclamation 7645 of January 31, 2003

    National African American History Month, 2003

    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    African Americans have played central roles in some of the most
    triumphant and courageous moments in our Nation's history. During
    National African American History Month, we honor the rich heritage of
    African Americans and pay tribute to their many contributions to our
    Nation. As we celebrate this year's theme, ``The Souls of Black Folk:
    Centennial Reflections,'' we remember the successes and challenges of
    our past. We also resolve to honor the achievements and legacy of

    [[Page 2995]]
    117 STAT. 2995

    these proud citizens by continuing to improve our society so that it
    fully lives up to our founding ideals.
    In 1915, Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson recognized the need for our country
    to gain a more complete and informed understanding of our past. He
    founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History and
    established the first Negro History Week to emphasize that ``We have a
    wonderful history behind us . . . `` Through the pioneering efforts of
    Dr. Woodson and the hard work of the Association, this observance
    officially became Black History Month in 1976.
    For generations, African Americans have strengthened our Nation by
    urging reforms, overcoming obstacles, and breaking down barriers. We see
    the greatness of America in those who have risen above injustice and
    enriched our society, a greatness reflected in the resolve of Jackie
    Robinson, the intellect of W.E.B. DuBois, and the talent of Louis
    Armstrong. We also gain a deeper appreciation for the African-American
    experience in the writings of James Baldwin, Ralph Ellison, and Zora
    Neal Hurston, as well as in the music of Mahalia Jackson, Billie
    Holiday, Duke Ellington, and countless others.
    African Americans reflect a proud legacy of courage and dedication that
    has helped to guide our Nation's success and prosperity. Visionary
    leaders like Frederick Douglass, Thurgood Marshall, and Martin Luther
    King, Jr., possessed a clarity of purpose and were instrumental in
    exposing and addressing the issues that threatened our founding
    principles. The battle for freedom, equality, and opportunity was fought
    on the front lines by strong figures such as Harriet Tubman and Fannie
    Lou Hamer, as well as many other everyday heroes who helped to lead this
    Nation to a more hopeful and just society.
    As we recall these remarkable individuals, we also recognize that,
    despite our progress, racial prejudice still exists in America. As a
    Nation and as individuals, we must be vigilant in responding to
    discrimination wherever we find it. By promoting diversity,
    understanding, and opportunity, we will continue our efforts to build a
    society where every person, of every race, can realize the promise of
    America.
    This month, I encourage all citizens to gain awareness of and
    appreciation for African-American history. As we remember this important
    part of our Nation's past, we look to a bright future, recognizing the
    potential of an America united in purpose, guided by spirit, and
    dedicated to equality.
    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 February 2003 as National
    African American History Month. I call upon public officials, educators,
    librarians, and all of the people of the United States to observe this
    month with appropriate programs and activities that highlight and honor
    the myriad of contributions that African Americans have made to our
    Nation.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of
    January, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
    seventh.

    GEORGE W. BUSH

    [[Page 2996]]
    117 STAT. 2996