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

    Proclamation 7724 of October 18, 2003

    National Character Counts Week, 2003

    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Many of our society's most cherished values, such as equal treatment for
    fellow citizens and respect for the law, depend in practice on
    individual character. During National Character Counts Week, we
    recognize the importance that good character has played in our history,
    celebrate the great character exhibited by our citizens, and reaffirm
    our commitment to promoting the values that will ensure a better future
    for all.
    Throughout history, we see numerous examples of character in action.
    Great social reformers like Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, and
    Susan B. Anthony demonstrated courage and resolve when they stood firm
    in the face of injustice and acted to right societal wrongs. Similarly,
    leaders like Abraham Lincoln and Franklin Roosevelt, were able to guide
    our Nation through critical periods because of their strong personal
    convictions and sense of moral clarity. Today, these and other heroes of
    history inspire us to pursue virtue and character in our own lives.
    Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, we have seen the
    great character of our Nation in the hearts and souls of our citizens
    and soldiers, and in countless acts of kindness, generosity, and
    sacrifice. To sustain this spirit and continue to improve our society,
    we must promote a culture of service, citizenship, and responsibility in
    our Nation. Through the USA Freedom Corps, my Administration is offering
    opportunities for citizens to give back to their communities, helping
    millions of Americans meet vital needs as active and engaged citizens in
    our democratic society.
    The development of character and citizenship has always been a primary
    goal of America's schools. Today, it is more important than ever that we
    educate our young people to be knowledgeable, compassionate, and
    involved citizens of a free society. Since 2002, 47 State education
    agencies and local school districts have received grants to implement
    character education programs. These grants help schools work with

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    students, parents, and community organizations to effectively teach
    universal values such as respect, honesty, and tolerance.
    This week, I urge all Americans to join me in promoting good character
    in America. By teaching these values to our children and living by these
    values in our own lives, we can build a future of hope, compassion, and
    opportunity for all.
    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 October 19 through October
    25, 2003, as National Character Counts Week. I call upon public
    officials, educators, librarians, parents, students, and all the people
    of the United States to observe this week with appropriate ceremonies,
    activities, and programs.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day of
    October, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
    eighth.
    GEORGE W. BUSH